New Delhi | November 10, 2025 — By Senior Correspondent
A powerful explosion near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Old Delhi on Monday evening has left at least eight people dead and several others injured, sending shockwaves across the national capital. The blast occurred at 6:52 PM, tearing through a parked white van and igniting nearby vehicles in one of the city’s busiest heritage zones.
Thick smoke filled the air as terrified pedestrians and commuters scrambled for safety. The explosion’s impact was felt across the Chandni Chowk area, shattering glass windows and setting off fire alarms in nearby shops.
Eyewitness Accounts: “It Felt Like an Earthquake”
lAccording to witnesses, the van had stopped at a traffic signal when it suddenly exploded.
“It felt like an earthquake — the ground shook, people screamed, and fire engulfed the cars,” said Mohammed Rafiq, a street vendor who was just meters away.
Within minutes, the area was plunged into chaos. Twenty fire tenders rushed to the site and managed to douse the blaze by 7:29 PM. Delhi Police immediately sealed off the surroundings, evacuating hundreds of commuters from the Metro and market lanes.
Casualties and Emergency Response
Authorities confirmed eight fatalities and multiple injuries, though the exact toll may rise.
Most of the victims were bystanders caught near the explosion. The injured were rushed to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital (LNJP), where three remain in critical condition.
A senior doctor at LNJP told reporters, “The injuries suggest exposure to a high-pressure blast — we’re seeing severe burns and shrapnel wounds.”
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora have reviewed the hospital’s emergency response and assured that all victims’ families will receive full support.
Verified Timeline of Events (As of 9:07 PM)
Timeline: Red Fort Metro Station Explosion — Key Developments
| Time (IST) | Event Summary |
| 6:52 PM | Explosion reported near Gate No. 1, Red Fort Metro Station; first distress calls made to Delhi Police. |
| 6:55 PM | Police and traffic units arrive, cordon off the area to prevent public entry. |
| 7:00 PM | Delhi Fire Service begins firefighting operations; multiple vehicles found burning. |
| 7:29 PM | Fire brought under control; first casualties confirmed at the site. |
| 7:35 PM | Delhi Police Special Cell and Crime Branch teams arrive and begin detailed inspection. |
| 8:00 PM | Forensic experts and Bomb Disposal Squad start collecting material evidence. |
| 8:30 PM | Chief Minister briefed on the situation; LNJP Hospital emergency activated. |
| 8:45 PM | Official statement issued by Delhi Police confirming a “high-intensity explosion.” |
| 9:00 PM | Union Home Ministry places Delhi on high alert; security tightened across metro stations and airports. |
| 9:07 PM (current) | NIA officers reach site; forensic collection continues under floodlights. Investigation ongoing. |
NIA Takes Charge, Cause Still Undetermined
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police Special Cell are jointly probing the cause.
Forensic experts are analyzing metallic fragments and vehicle debris to identify the explosive used.
A senior police source said, “We are not ruling out any angle — from mechanical failure to deliberate sabotage.”
Investigators are also examining whether the incident could be linked to the 2,900-kilogram explosives seizure in Faridabad earlier in the day. No organization has yet claimed responsibility.
Security Tightened Across Capital
Following the explosion, the Union Home Ministry directed all metro stations, airports, and major markets to be placed under heightened surveillance.
Checkpoints have been reinforced at Connaught Place, Kashmere Gate, and Daryaganj, while police patrols have been increased across Old Delhi.
Citizens have been advised to avoid the Red Fort – Chandni Chowk stretch and report any suspicious activity to the 112 Police Helpline.
Public Shock and Response
Local residents, vendors, and commuters joined emergency crews in rescue efforts before official reinforcements arrived. Videos on social media show a ball of fire rising from the van and commuters running for cover.
The viral clip is being analyzed by Delhi Police’s Cyber Cell for authenticity and sequencing.
National Reaction
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
“The incident near Red Fort is deeply distressing. My prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives. Authorities are conducting a full investigation,” the Prime Minister stated.
Current Situation
As of 9:07 PM, forensic teams continue to examine the blast site under strong security. The Red Fort and surrounding markets remain sealed to the public.
The official cause of the explosion has not yet been determined. Authorities are expected to release a detailed briefing later tonight.
