As of the most recent updates from official sources and hospitals around 8:00 PM IST on November 10, 2025, at least 8 people have been confirmed dead in the blast near Lal Quila (Red Fort) Metro Station in Delhi. This figure comes from Delhi Police statements and reports from LNJP Hospital, where multiple victims were declared dead on arrival. Additionally, 12 to 24 people are injured, with 3-4 in critical condition. Some unverified social media reports mention higher numbers (up to 17 deaths), but these have not been corroborated by authorities.
Full Story of the Lal Quila Blast
On the evening of November 10, 2025, a high-intensity explosion rocked a busy area near Gate No. 1 of the Lal Quila Metro Station in Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk neighborhood, just opposite the iconic Red Fort (Lal Quila). The incident occurred around 6:55-7:05 PM IST, during peak evening hours when the area—known for its crowded markets, street vendors, and commuters—was teeming with people. Eyewitnesses described the blast as sounding like an “earthquake,” with a massive fireball erupting from a parked car, flinging debris up to 150 meters, shattering nearby streetlights and shop windows, and igniting a chain reaction.
What Happened: Timeline of Events
- 6:55 PM IST: The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) received an emergency call about a “blast in a four-wheeler” near Gate No. 1 of Lal Quila Metro Station, close to Gauri Shankar Mandir. Initial reports suggested it started as a fire in a parked car (possibly an eco-van or sedan), but the explosion was far too powerful for a simple vehicle malfunction.
- Immediate Aftermath: The blast triggered fires in 3-4 nearby vehicles, engulfing them in flames and causing secondary damage to surrounding shops and structures. Videos circulating on social media showed thick black smoke billowing over the historic Red Fort skyline, panicked crowds fleeing the narrow streets, and locals rushing to help the injured. Body parts and charred remains were reported scattered at the site, underscoring the blast’s ferocity.
- 7:05-7:30 PM: Seven fire tenders and over 15 ambulances (including CAT teams) were dispatched. Firefighters brought the blaze under control by 7:29 PM, but rescue operations continued amid the chaos. At least 8 people—mostly passersby, vendors, and possibly vehicle occupants—were killed instantly or en route to hospitals. Victims included women and children in the crowded market area.
- Post-Blast Response: The site was quickly cordoned off by Delhi Police, who restricted entry/exit at Metro Gates 1 and 4 (though overall metro services remained operational). A heavy security presence, including the Delhi Police Special Cell, National Investigation Agency (NIA), and National Security Guard (NSG) teams, descended on the scene. Forensic experts began collecting evidence, including vehicle remnants and explosive residues.
Casualties and Impact
- Deaths: 8 confirmed (per Delhi Police and LNJP Hospital MS). Five were brought dead to LNJP alone, with others to nearby facilities.
- Injuries: 12-24 treated, including burns, shrapnel wounds, and blast trauma. Three are critically injured and undergoing surgery.
- Damage: Beyond the vehicles, the explosion damaged street infrastructure and nearby market stalls. No structural harm to the Red Fort itself was reported, but the symbolic location heightened national concern.
- Human Toll: The area’s evening bustle amplified the tragedy—victims were everyday Delhiites heading home or shopping in Chandni Chowk.
Investigation and Possible Causes
The exact cause remains under probe, but preliminary findings point to an explosive device rather than an accident:
- Terror Angle: Authorities are treating it as a potential terror attack, with the NIA and NSG involved. Sources suggest it could be a car bomb, given the blast’s radius and intensity. No group has claimed responsibility yet, but intelligence agencies are scanning for links to recent ammonium nitrate seizures (over 3,000 kg recovered earlier today in related ops).
- Other Theories: Ruled-out possibilities include a gas cylinder leak or EV battery explosion, as the force exceeded typical vehicle fires. Forensic teams are testing for RDX or similar high explosives.
- Security Lapses?: The high-security zone near Red Fort (a national monument and Independence Day site) has sparked questions about surveillance gaps, especially post-recent global threats.
Broader Response and Alerts
- Delhi on High Alert: All entry points, markets, and monuments are under heightened vigil. Vehicle checks and patrolling have intensified.
- National Ripple: Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Uttar Pradesh, and other cities issued alerts, with increased checks at borders, religious sites, and transport hubs. UP DGP ordered beefed-up security in sensitive districts.
- Official Statements: Delhi Police DCP (Special Cell) confirmed investigations are ongoing but urged calm. No official comment from central leadership yet, though Home Minister Amit Shah is reportedly briefed.
This incident has stunned the nation, evoking memories of past Delhi blasts while underscoring urban vulnerabilities. Rescue efforts continue, and updates are expected as forensics progress. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families—may justice be swift. For real-time developments, follow credible news sources.
