A car explosion outside the historic Red Fort monument in Delhi has killed at least eight people and triggered a fire in the surrounding area, according to police.
The cause of the explosion, which took place just before 7pm on Monday night, was unknown.
According to police, a slow-moving vehicle had stopped at a red light just outside the Red Fort metro station. “An explosion happened in that vehicle, and due to the explosion, nearby vehicles were also damaged,” said Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha.
Golcha confirmed that at least eight people had been killed and 20 people had been injured. “The situation is being monitored. We are investigating the incident and will update you shortly,” he added.
“We are keeping all possibilities in mind,” said home minister Amit Shah.
The Red Fort, a vast 17th century Mughal palace, is one of India’s most significant monuments and is where the prime minister makes an annual address on the country’s independence day.
It is located in the heavily congested Old Delhi area of India’s capital which is usually heaving with people, food stalls and vehicles and is a popular tourist destination.
Several fire engines and ambulances rushed to the scene after the blast. Visuals broadcast on Indian tv news channels showed a car with its doors blasted off and mangled bodies on the floor. Dozens of other cars and rickshaws were blackened and burned in the fire from the explosion.
The city of Mumbai in Maharastra was put on “precautionary” high alert after the Red Fort blast. In the neighbouring state of Uttar Pradesh an order was issued to increase security at religious sites and sensitive border areas.
More to follow …