NEW DELHI (AP) — A powerful car explosion near the historic Red Fort in India’s capital Monday killed at least eight people and injured several others, authorities said, triggering a fire that damaged multiple nearby vehicles and sent shockwaves through one of New Delhi’s busiest areas.
Police said the blast occurred near one of the gates of the Red Fort metro station, close to the centuries-old Mughal-era monument that draws thousands of tourists daily. Emergency services were immediately dispatched as thick plumes of smoke rose over the old city district.
Sanjay Tyagi, a spokesperson for the New Delhi Police, confirmed that “at least eight people were killed, and several others injured,” adding that the cause of the explosion remains under investigation. “We are probing all possible angles, including whether an explosive device was planted inside the vehicle,” Tyagi told The Associated Press.
Witnesses reported hearing a deafening blast that shattered nearby windows and caused chaos in the densely populated neighborhood. “I heard a window-shattering sound, and then flames engulfed multiple vehicles,” a resident told NDTV, describing scenes of panic as people fled from the area.
The city’s fire department said several engines were deployed to contain the blaze that followed the explosion. Footage broadcast by Indian media showed firefighters battling flames as police cordoned off the area, restricting access to the Red Fort and adjacent metro station.
The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of Mughal emperors, has long been a symbol of India’s independence and a focal point for national events. The explosion near its gates raised immediate security concerns in the capital, which has been on alert following recent intelligence warnings about possible terror threats during the festive season.
Authorities have not ruled out foul play, and a forensic team has been dispatched to examine the blast site. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who traditionally delivers India’s Independence Day address from the Red Fort, was briefed on the incident by senior security officials.
The explosion comes amid heightened tensions and security crackdowns across India’s major cities ahead of upcoming national celebrations, prompting fears of renewed urban terror threats.
