Explosion near Red Fort metro triggers panic, traffic curbs; station closed
A sudden blast near Delhi's Red Fort metro station led to massive security deployment, metro suspension, and diversions across key Old Delhi routes as police probe the cause.
Police Tighten Security, Commuters Advised to Avoid Area
New Delhi — A powerful explosion near the Red Fort metro station sent parts of central Delhi into chaos on Monday evening. The authorities sealed off the area, shutting down the metro station and diverting traffic to prevent congestion and ensure public safety.
Delhi Traffic Police issued an emergency advisory, asking commuters to avoid the stretch leading to the Red Fort, Chandni Chowk, and Daryaganj. Major roads leading to the historic monument were sealed off, while metro services were temporarily suspended as bomb squads and forensic teams began their inspection.
According to initial reports, a vehicle parked near the wall of the Red Fort was the epicentre of the blast. The intensity of the explosion led to a quick mobilisation of the National Security Guard and Delhi Police’s Special Cell into action. Confirmation came from senior officers that the site was being treated as a high-priority investigation zone, with anti-terrorism laws invoked to examine possible links to organised groups.
Eyewitness accounts spoke of scenes of confusion and fear as police evacuated nearby areas. “We heard a sudden boom, and everyone started running. Shops shut down instantly,” said a shopkeeper from Chandni Chowk, one of the busiest commercial hubs in the city.
Officials later reassured residents that no casualties had been confirmed so far but added that a detailed investigation was underway. Teams are reviewing CCTV footage from metro premises and adjacent roads to determine the sequence of events.
Meanwhile, heavy traffic congestion was reported across adjacent routes, including Netaji Subhash Marg and Ring Road, as diversions came into place. DMRC officials said that the Red Fort metro station would remain shut till further orders pending security clearance.
The authorities have appealed to the people to remain calm, not spread rumors, and adhere to official updates. The city remains on high alert as investigation agencies continue to piece together what led to the explosion near one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.
