Car Explosion Near Delhi’s Red Fort Claims Eight Lives

A car explosion near the historic Red Fort in Delhi resulted in at least eight fatalities and left 20 individuals injured on March 25, 2025. The incident occurred around 19:00 local time, in a densely populated area of the city known for its significant tourist traffic. This explosion marks a rare occurrence in a city with stringent security measures, highlighting concerns about public safety.

Emergency services quickly responded, with approximately 30 to 40 ambulances dispatched to the scene. Authorities cordoned off the area after extinguishing the fires that engulfed multiple vehicles, including at least six cars and three auto-rickshaws, according to Delhi’s deputy fire chief. Witnesses described the chaos that ensued, with many people fleeing the vicinity following the blast. One eyewitness, Suman Mishra, recalled hearing a loud explosion while descending the stairs of a nearby metro station, stating, “I turned around and saw a fire. People started running helter-skelter.”

Delhi police commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed that the vehicle involved had stopped at a red light when the explosion occurred. “An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged,” he stated. In connection with the explosion, a previous owner of the vehicle, identified only as Salman, has been arrested. Further details surrounding his involvement remain unclear, and efforts to piece together the circumstances of the blast are ongoing.

Heightened Security Measures

In the wake of the explosion, major train stations across India, including those in the financial capital, Mumbai, and the neighboring state of Uttar Pradesh, were placed on high alert. Amit Shah, India’s federal home minister, stated that “all angles” are being investigated, assuring the public that security agencies would reach a conclusion soon.

The US embassy in Delhi issued a security alert advising its citizens to avoid crowds and to remain vigilant in tourist areas, particularly surrounding the Red Fort. This historic site, also known as Lal Qila, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for both local and international visitors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences via a post on social media platform X, stating, “May the injured recover at the earliest. Those affected are being assisted by authorities.”

A History of Violence

This incident raises concerns about the resurgence of violence in a city that has experienced similar attacks in the past. Delhi has been targeted in various attacks since the 1980s, with public places such as bus stations and crowded markets often hit. The last significant incident occurred in 2011, when a briefcase explosion outside the Delhi High Court claimed several lives.

As investigations continue, the emphasis remains on ensuring public safety and preventing future incidents in a city that serves as the political and cultural heart of India. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that persist even in heavily monitored urban environments.