Red Fort Metro Station Remains Closed Following Fatal Blast: Impact on Local Markets and Transportation

The Lal Quila Metro Station will continue to remain closed on Wednesday as a precautionary security measure following Monday's devastating explosion near the Red Fort.

New Delhi:

Officials from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced via X platform that "Due to security reasons, the Lal Quila Metro Station shall continue to remain closed on November 12. All other stations are functional as normal." This marks the second consecutive day of closure after Tuesday's shutdown, implemented in response to Monday evening's high-intensity blast near the historic Red Fort that claimed at least 12 lives and left 20 others injured.

The impact of this tragic incident, coupled with traffic restrictions in the area, has left nearby commercial districts notably empty. Markets that typically bustle with activity now appear deserted, causing significant concern among local business owners about their livelihoods.

Bachoo Choudhury, who operates a shop in Lajpat Rai Market, expressed his frustration: "We work for two months--one day of work is equal to one month's worth. We have enough stock to last two months. The rest of the year, we sit idle as there isn't much work. How will tourists come now? Our business depends mostly on them. When tourists don't come, we are already at a loss, and all our stock will go bad."

The economic ripple effects are expected to extend far beyond the immediate area. Merchants from Sadar Bazaar, another prominent commercial hub, anticipate prolonged business disruptions lasting several weeks.

One retailer from the area explained: "For one month, traders will not come here. The wholesale market in Sadar Bazaar, which is India's most famous market, along with Chandni Chowk, all come under the same umbrella. Traders come from faraway places to buy materials."