Delhi Blast/sbkinews.in
A tragic explosion at a busy traffic signal in Central Delhi on Sunday evening has left eight people dead and several others injured, sending shockwaves across the national capital. The incident occurred around 6:15 PM at the bustling Minto Road intersection near Connaught Place, where a slow-moving car reportedly burst into flames just as the signal turned red. Delhi Police officials have confirmed that preliminary investigations point to a possible mechanical fault or overheated fuel tank as the cause of the explosion.
Scene of Chaos and Fear
Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror as the car suddenly caught fire, followed by a massive burst that shattered nearby shop windows and damaged three vehicles. Locals and commuters scrambled for safety as thick smoke filled the area. Fire department officials reached the spot within minutes, supported by eight fire tenders that battled the flames for nearly half an hour before bringing the blaze under control.
According to officials, the vehicle involved was a light-grey sedan registered in Delhi. Initial reports suggest the driver had stopped at the traffic signal moments before the explosion. The terrifying blast engulfed the entire vehicle within seconds, leaving no time for passengers or nearby motorists to react.
Delhi Blast
Fatalities and Injuries Confirmed
Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Sharma confirmed that eight people lost their lives in the explosion, including the car’s driver and two passengers seated inside. Five bystanders sustained burn injuries and were rushed to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and LNJP Hospital, where doctors described their condition as critical but stable.
Sharma added that a detailed forensic examination was underway to determine the exact cause of the explosion. “At this stage, we can rule out the possibility of a terror link or external explosive device. Initial evidence points towards an internal combustion or mechanical malfunction that led to the sudden fire,” he said during a brief press conference late Sunday night.
Delhi Blast
Investigation and Forensic Findings
The Delhi Fire Service (DFS) has joined hands with the Crime Branch and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) to analyze fragments recovered from the site. Experts are focusing on fuel leakage, battery short-circuiting, or malfunctioning gas fittings as potential triggers. The car, believed to be fitted with a CNG kit, is now at the center of the inquiry.
An FSL officer speaking on condition of anonymity revealed that remnants of the cylinder and pressure valve will undergo detailed chemical testing. “Preliminary signs indicate a high-pressure gas eruption leading to combustion. However, confirmation will depend on lab results expected within 48 hours,” the officer said.
Delhi Blast
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response
Eyewitness Rohit Kumar, who runs a shop near the signal, said the explosion sounded “like a bomb.” “Everyone thought it was an attack. Flames shot up instantly, and people screamed. Police and fire trucks came quickly, but by then the car was completely destroyed,” he recounted.
Ambulances and emergency teams arrived promptly, evacuating the injured and controlling the traffic chaos that followed. The Delhi Traffic Police diverted vehicles through alternate routes for more than two hours. Senior officers personally supervised the rescue and cordon operations at the site.
Videos recorded by onlookers quickly went viral on social media, prompting widespread concern and speculation until authorities released their official statement.
Delhi Blast
Government and Public Reaction
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed deep grief over the incident, calling it “a heartbreaking tragedy that demands accountability and safety awareness.” He has directed officials to ensure adequate medical treatment for the injured and has ordered a detailed safety audit of CNG vehicles and their maintenance protocols.
Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to the Delhi Police Commissioner, urging a thorough investigation. “Every life lost due to safety negligence is one too many. We will ensure such incidents are prevented through strict enforcement of vehicle safety standards,” Shah said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The Delhi government announced compensation of Rs. 5 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs. 1 lakh to the injured. NGOs and volunteer groups have offered to assist victims’ families with logistical and psychological support.
Delhi Blast
Broader Safety Concerns in Focus
This incident has reignited discussion around vehicle safety standards and enforcement in metropolitan areas. Delhi, home to over 1.3 crore registered vehicles, has witnessed rising concerns over the maintenance of CNG-run cars and public transport fleets.
Auto engineering experts stress that most explosions of this nature stem from improper maintenance or overaged CNG kits. Rajesh Bhatnagar, a senior automotive safety consultant, said, “CNG technology is safe when systems are checked regularly. The problem arises when owners bypass periodic inspections or rely on unapproved installations.”
The Delhi Transport Department is now expected to issue revised inspection guidelines for private and commercial vehicles in light of Sunday’s disaster.
Delhi Blast
Forensic Report Expected Soon
By late Monday, forensic teams completed their on-site evidence collection. The wreckage of the destroyed vehicles was moved for detailed laboratory analysis. Officials expect the final report by Wednesday, which will determine if the explosion was purely accidental or aggravated by external factors.
Police have registered a case under sections of negligence and causing death due to careless acts while awaiting the forensic report. Traffic resumed gradually on Minto Road by night, though the charred remains and smell of burnt rubber served as grim reminders of the tragedy.
Residents and safety experts alike have urged authorities to treat this as a wake-up call for implementing regular vehicle safety audits and stricter CNG certification norms across Delhi.
Reported by the SBKI News team. Stay tuned with sbkinews.in for verified updates and exclusive local coverage on developing stories across Delhi and beyond. for full news click here
