NEW DELHI: A powerful explosion in a parked car near Gate No. 1 of the Lal Qila Metro Station, near Gauri Shankar Mandir and directly opposite the historic Red Fort, sent shockwaves through Old Delhi around 7:05 PM this evening. Early reports claimed that at least eight persons are dead and several others injured in the blast, which ignited a fierce fire that engulfed three to four nearby vehicles, prompting a swift emergency response and placing the national capital on high alert.

Eyewitnesses described a deafening boom that echoed for kilometers, with flames and thick smoke billowing from the congested Chandni Chowk area — a bustling hub of markets and tourists. Videos circulating on social media captured the chaos: a mangled car wreathed in fire, emergency lights flashing, and crowds scattering in panic. One user on X noted the explosion was audible as far as ITO, over 2.5 km away.

The deceased are believed to have been near the exploded vehicle, while those who sustained injuries are primarily suffering from burns and shrapnel wounds from the blast and have been rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The exact toll remains fluid as rescue operations continue, but authorities have ruled out any immediate threat to the broader public.

The fire, which started after a blast in a four-wheeler, reportedly a Maruti Eco, and rapidly spread due to the densely parked vehicles in the vicinity, damaging property in the iconic Lajpat Rai Market area. No structural damage to the Red Fort or metro station has been reported, but since the site is a UNESCO World Heritage landmark and symbol of India's independence, security has been heightened and senior officials are on-site.

Delhi Fire Services dispatched seven to ten fire tenders within minutes of the alert, successfully dousing the blaze after about 30 minutes. Police cordoned off the area, evacuating commuters and vendors, while forensic teams and a bomb squad combed the site for clues.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and National Security Guard (NSG) have been summoned to assist Delhi Police, amid unconfirmed speculation of a terror angle, especially following recent seizures of explosives in nearby Faridabad. However, officials have not yet attributed a cause, with investigations pointing toward possible foul play or mechanical failure. “The situation is under control, but we urge the public to avoid the area,” a Delhi Police spokesperson said in a brief statement.