Deadly Explosion Near Delhi's Red Fort Claims 8 Lives, PM Modi Orders In-depth Investigation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and taken stock of the situation after the shocking blast near Delhi's iconic Red Fort that has claimed eight lives and left more than 20 people injured, sources in the government have said. The Prime Minister, it is learnt, has directed an in-depth investigation into all aspects of the incident.

The explosion, which has set off alarm bells across the country's security establishment, took place near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station. Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha told the media that the blast occurred in a slow moving car that had stopped near a red light. The explosion happened at 6.52 pm and tore through at least a dozen cars passing through the crowded area. Shortly after, approximately 15 fire engines were dispatched to the location and firefighters spent around 30 minutes to control the flames. The blast reportedly occurred in a mid-sized car that according to eyewitnesses had some passengers.

Teams from the National Investigation Agency, the National Security Guard, the Delhi Police Crime Branch and several other security agencies have rushed to the site. Those injured in the explosion have been transferred to the Lok Nayak Hospital.

Disturbing visuals from the scene demonstrate the force of the blast. Witnesses report seeing a "huge fireball" following the deafening explosion.

In response to the incident, the national capital has been placed on high alert. Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand have also been put under high alert status.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has stated that the explosion is being investigated from all angles. "I am going to the spot and the hospital," he said, adding that additional information will be shared with the public soon.