Deadly Blast Near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station: 13 Killed, Nearly 30 Injured

A powerful explosion tore through a parked vehicle near the Red Fort metro station in central Delhi today, killing 13 people and injuring nearly 30 others. The blast occurred around 7 p.m., sending flames and debris across the busy intersection near Gate No.1, where evening traffic was at its peak.

Multiple vehicles caught fire following the detonation, leaving behind charred wreckage and heavy smoke across the heritage zone. Fire and rescue units arrived within minutes, bringing the situation under control while paramedics rushed the injured to LNJP and AIIMS hospitals.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Delhi Police Crime Branch have launched a joint investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the blast may have originated from an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden inside the vehicle, though officials say other possibilities are still under review.

Forensic experts are collecting samples from the debris to determine the nature of the explosive. Security has been tightened across the capital, with high alert status declared at all major landmarks, metro stations, and airports.

Home Minister Amit Shah has briefed top officials and instructed agencies to maintain maximum vigilance. Police have appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to report any suspicious vehicles or packages immediately.

The death toll rose to 13 late in the evening after two more victims succumbed to injuries. Authorities confirmed that several of the wounded remain in critical condition, and identification of the deceased is underway. The area remains cordoned off, with bomb disposal squads and forensic teams continuing detailed sweeps through the night.