Powerful explosion near metro in Delhi leaves many dead and injured
Photo: at least 8 people confirmed dead (Getty Images)
A car exploded near the Red Fort, a popular landmark in India’s capital, New Delhi, on the evening of November 10, close to a metro station. Nearly ten people were killed, according to Reuters.
The incident occurred in a densely populated area of Old Delhi, which is subject to heightened security. At least eight people were killed and around twenty others were injured in the explosion.
"A slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light. An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged," Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha told reporters.
According to him, the blast took place shortly before 7:00 PM local time. At least six cars and three autorickshaws were also damaged. The area was cordoned off as police officers and forensic experts worked at the scene.
Police detain car owner
Police representatives detained the vehicle’s previous owner, identified only as Salman. India’s Home Minister Amit Shah said the investigation is being conducted "from all angles."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to those injured. The US Embassy in New Delhi warned American citizens to avoid crowds near the Red Fort and other tourist areas.
Historical background
The Red Fort, a 17th-century Mughal-era monument, is one of Delhi’s most popular tourist sites. Reuters recalls that the Indian capital has been the target of terrorist attacks in the past, during the 1980s, 1990s, and in 2011, with responsibility attributed to Islamist militants and separatist groups.
Earlier, in the city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu state, a gas cylinder explosion caused a fire on a train, killing nine people and injuring as many. Officials said the cylinder had been brought on board illegally.
In another tragedy in 2023, a train derailment in India left more than 200 people dead.
