Key Points:
- Red Fort blast prompts high alert: Nine killed, 24 injured; security tightened nationwide.
- Probe underway: NSG and Delhi Police lead investigation.
- City impact: Shops shut, travel delays reported.
A powerful explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening resulted in multiple casualties, according to Delhi Police. Officials confirmed that nine people were killed and 24 injured. Authorities have increased security measures across the National Capital Region (NCR) and several major cities while investigations continue.
The blast occurred near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station around 6:30 p.m. Police and forensic teams immediately cordoned off the area to collect evidence and assess the extent of the damage. The National Security Guard (NSG) and other central agencies are assisting in the investigation.
Investigations continue in Delhi
The Ministry of Home Affairs has been briefed following the Red Fort blast, and additional security forces have been deployed at key sites including the Red Fort, Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Delhi Metro network, and several government buildings. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which manages security at many public and private installations, has strengthened checks at airports, metros, and other sensitive locations.
Officials reported intensified screening procedures at IGI Airport, and additional personnel have been deployed across all terminals. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said train services are continuing without disruption, though security checks have been increased at major stations. Similarly, the Central Railway and Northern Railway confirmed that services are operating as scheduled, with reinforced surveillance and patrolling by Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) teams.
No group has claimed responsibility for the Red Fort blast as of Tuesday morning. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing security measures.
High alert in metro cities
Following the Red Fort blast in Delhi, major metropolitan areas including Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad have been placed on heightened alert. Local police and state intelligence units have strengthened surveillance at airports, railway stations, and metro networks.
In Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Police increased patrolling around key public transport hubs such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, major shopping centers, and tourist zones. Kolkata Police enhanced security at the city’s metro stations and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. Similar measures were reported in Hyderabad and Chennai, with additional security personnel deployed at crowded areas and public events.
Transport and civic authorities across these cities have also reviewed their emergency response protocols. Public areas are being monitored through expanded CCTV coverage, and random vehicle checks have been initiated in several zones.
Businesses, travel sectors assess impact
Shops and small businesses near the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk area have temporarily closed due to the cordoned-off perimeter following the Red Fort blast. Business owners in the vicinity reported disruptions in evening operations as police restricted access to adjoining streets for safety inspections. Local trade associations said they expect a short-term slowdown in sales until the area is reopened to the public.
Travel and transport services have also taken precautionary steps. Airlines operating from IGI Airport have advised passengers to arrive early for flights due to additional screening. Logistics firms using the Delhi-Mumbai freight corridor said deliveries may face minor delays as a result of security restrictions near major transport hubs.
Tourism operators expressed concern about the possible short-term impact on visitor numbers. The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists each week.
Industry observers noted that the incident could increase demand for private security services and insurance coverage in high-footfall commercial areas. Businesses near heritage sites and transport hubs are expected to review their risk preparedness and safety protocols.
Official monitoring continues
Officials said that all security agencies remain on high alert and are coordinating with state governments to monitor potential threats following the Red Fort blast. The Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed that updates will be provided as verified information becomes available.
Forensic experts are analyzing debris and CCTV footage to establish the source of the explosion. The area around the Red Fort Metro Station remains closed to the public as recovery and inspection work continues. Authorities have assured that normal operations will resume once the site is deemed secure.
Visit more of our news! Business Viewpoint Magazine
