New Delhi: A massive explosion near the iconic Red Fort in Delhi early Saturday morning sent shockwaves across the capital. The blast, which occurred in an Eco van near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station, has left 10 people dead and 24 others injured, several of them critically.
The explosion, reported around 6:52 am, was of high intensity, destroying at least five to six nearby vehicles and shattering windowpanes in the vicinity. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with flames engulfing parked vehicles and debris scattered across the road.
Rescue Operations Underway; Injured Rushed to LNJP Hospital
Emergency services responded swiftly. The fire department received the first alert at 6:55 am, and seven fire tenders were immediately dispatched to the scene to control the blaze.
The bodies of the deceased have been shifted to Lok Nayak Jaiprakash (LNJP) Hospital, where the injured are being treated. According to hospital officials, several victims are in critical condition, and the death toll may rise.
#WATCH | Delhi: Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha says, "Today at around 6.52 pm, a slow-moving vehicle stopped at the red light. An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged. All agencies, FSL, NIA, are here… Some… pic.twitter.com/uIt7NRziur
— ANI (@ANI) November 10, 2025
NIA, NSG, and Delhi Police Teams Begin Investigation
A massive multi-agency investigation is underway. Teams from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Security Guard (NSG), and Delhi Police Special Cell have reached the spot. Forensic and technical experts are examining the debris to determine the nature and source of the explosion.
The blast also knocked out nearby streetlights, indicating the sheer magnitude of the explosion. The Delhi Police Commissioner, Satish Golchha (IPS, 1992 batch), confirmed that all investigative agencies, including the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), are actively working on-site.
Police Commissioner’s Statement
Commissioner Satish Golchha said, “Around 6:52 am, a slowly moving car was stopped at a traffic signal when it suddenly exploded. Several vehicles parked nearby were also damaged due to the blast. All agencies – FSL and NIA – are present at the spot and the investigation is underway. Some people have died and several are injured. All the injured have been taken to hospitals, and we are continuously monitoring the situation.”
He added that Home Minister Amit Shah has been briefed and that regular updates are being provided.
PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah Take Stock of the Situation
Sources in the Government of India confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken stock of the situation after speaking to Home Minister Amit Shah, who is personally monitoring the developments.
Amit Shah has also spoken to the Delhi Police Commissioner, as well as the Director General of the NSG and the Chief of the NIA, to coordinate the probe.
High Alert Declared Across Delhi
Following the blast, a high alert has been declared across Delhi and adjoining regions. Security has been tightened at key landmarks, markets, and metro stations, including Chandni Chowk, which has been temporarily shut down.
The entire area surrounding Red Fort has been cordoned off, and traffic has been diverted. Security agencies are not ruling out the possibility of a larger conspiracy behind the explosion.
Possible Link to Ammonium Nitrate Seizure in Faridabad
The blast comes just hours after authorities seized 2,900 kg of ammonium nitrate from Faridabad, a district bordering Delhi. The substance, commonly used in explosives, was reportedly stored in suitcases and plastic containers.
Although investigators say it is too early to link the two incidents, the timing and proximity have raised suspicions among security agencies. Forensic teams are examining whether similar chemical signatures are present at the blast site.
Eyewitness Accounts: “The Car Suddenly Burst Into Flames”
Local witnesses described a sudden, deafening explosion followed by intense flames. Several bystanders tried to pull people from burning vehicles before rescue teams arrived. “We saw a white Eco van at the signal; within seconds, it burst into flames. The shockwave shattered the glass of nearby shops and vehicles,” said a shopkeeper near the Red Fort Metro entrance.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the cause of the blast remains unconfirmed. Preliminary reports suggest it could have been caused either by a CNG cylinder explosion or a planted explosive device, but officials have not ruled out any possibility.
With multiple agencies on-site, detailed forensic testing and CCTV analysis are underway. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
