Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered the state’s police and security agencies to remain on high alert following an explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort metro station that left eight dead. The alert comes shortly after authorities recovered 360 kg of suspected ammonium nitrate from Faridabad in Haryana, sparking wider security concerns across northern and western India.
What are the safety guidelines issued by Maharashtra?
According to the Maharashtra Home Ministry, Fadnavis reviewed the security situation in two high-level meetings on Monday – one after the discovery of explosive material in Faridabad and the other after the blast in Delhi.
A senior government official said, “Following the recovery of 360 kg of possible ammonium nitrate (from Haryana’s Faridabad), Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met all senior police officials in Varsha this afternoon and took stock of the overall security situation. Now, after the incident in Delhi, he has again directed the police to remain vigilant.”
The state government has asked the police to step up patrols, monitor transit routes and sensitive facilities and strengthen intelligence coordination with central authorities.
What happened at Red Fort Metro Station?
The blast occurred near Gate No. 1 of Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening. According to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital officials, eight people died before reaching the hospital, while seven others are injured, three of them critically.
Delhi Police officials said, “I can’t tell you anything at this time. The investigation is going on.”
Senior Central Security personnel, including teams from CRPF, NSG, NIA and Forensic Science Laboratory, are now inspecting the spot.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer AK Malik said, “We responded immediately and seven units were dispatched to the spot. The fire was brought under control at 7.29 pm. All our teams are present at the spot.”
Eyewitnesses describe the scene of shock
Local residents described scenes of devastation. One witness said: “When we saw someone’s hand on the road we were completely shocked. I can’t put it into words…”
Another added: “As we got closer we saw body parts strewn across the road. No one could figure out what had happened. Several cars were damaged.”
How is the recovery of Faridabad related?
Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Police recovered about 360 kg of inflammable material and ammunition from Faridabad and arrested two accused, Dr. Muzammil and Aadil Rather. While officials have not confirmed a direct link between the seizure and the Delhi blast, both events prompted heightened national security coordination.
DIG CRPF commented, “It’s too early to say anything. I’m just going to the site…”
