At least ten people were killed and nineteen injured in a vehicle explosion this Monday afternoon in a crowded area of New Delhi, India's capital. The explosion occurred at approximately 19:00 local time. The Delhi Fire Department had to deploy seven fire trucks to control the flames, which took them about an hour. Immediately following the incident, authorities declared a maximum alert in New Delhi and proceeded to reinforce security at sensitive points in the city and the neighboring state of Uttar Pradesh. This location is significant as it is a major tourist attraction and a densely populated area in Old Delhi. Indian police confirmed that the detonation originated inside a vehicle, specifically a Hyundai i20 model, which was stopped at a traffic light. Although the investigation is ongoing, the initial cause being handled is that of a parked car bomb, however, the capital's police commissioner, Satish Golcha, keeps all hypotheses open, including that of a mechanical accident, until the forensic examinations are concluded. The preliminary toll of victims is at least eight people who died before they could receive hospital care. Additionally, between eleven and nineteen injured were reported, with at least three of them in serious condition. The intensity of the explosion caused significant material damage. The shockwave broke the windows of nearby vehicles and caused a fire that affected a minimum of six cars and several auto-rickshaws. Key agencies, such as the Forensic Laboratory and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), mobilized to the site to gather evidence and review security camera footage. India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, commented on the event to express his condolences to the families of the victims and the nation. The incident took place in a high-traffic area, near gate number one of the Red Fort Metro Station.
