A powerful explosion has struck the Indian capital city of New Delhi today, leaving at least 12 people dead and dozens injured.
Sources from local media outlets spoke about a twin car bomb explosion near Gate 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi. The blast took place at a red light and erupted inside the cars’ shells, damaging several other cars located nearby. It also led to a fire involving six cars and three rickshaws that were seen nearby.
At least 12 people were killed and dozens were injured in the explosion. In reply to the blast, the authorities have raised the security level to a red alert situation across Delhi and neighboring states, including Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.
The Central Industrial Security Force extended the alert to cover all airports, major metro stations, heritage sites, and government buildings across India.
Investigators are currently treating the explosion as an under investigation. The fact that it arose at a signal stop in a densely trafficked historic area underscores concerns about security vulnerabilities and potential targeting of crowded public spaces.
Emergency crews and firefighters were seen rushing to the scene to help treat those injured as scenes of panic filled the air after the explosion.