A car explosion has taken place in the Indian capital, New Delhi, near a metro station located near one of the city’s main tourist attractions. At least eight people have been killed and 24 others injured in the incident. NDTV reports.
“Eight people died before they were taken to hospital. Three were seriously injured, while one is in stable condition, a local hospital said.
According to police, the explosion took place at around 6:52 p.m. near Gate 1 of the metro station, near the famous Red Fort. The explosion caused a fire that damaged 22 nearby cars. About twenty fire engines were rushed to the scene, and police quickly cordoned off the tourist area.
“We received information about the explosion near the Chandni Chowk metro station. Seven fire brigade units immediately rushed to the spot, and the fire was brought under control at 7:29 p.m.”, said the deputy chief fire officer.
The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined. Emergency services, an anti-terrorist squad and a special police unit are working at the scene. India’s main counter-terrorism agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and units of the National Security Guard have joined the investigation into the incident.
The Delhi and National Capital Region Security Service (CISF) has put all facilities on high alert, including the Delhi Metro, the Red Fort, government buildings and the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
