New delhi: At least eight people were killed and 15 others seriously injured in an explosion in the Indian capital New Delhi on Monday, state media reported. The incident occurred near the historic Red Fort, a prominent Mughal structure in the city, at around 6.52 pm (0122GMT).

According to Anadolu Agency, state-run Doordarshan News reported that "8 people (were) reported killed in a car blast near the Red Fort. Rescue operations underway." The explosion resulted in critical injuries to 15 individuals, who were subsequently taken to Lok Nayak Jaya Prakash Hospital for treatment.

In response to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assessed the situation during a phone call with Amit Shah, the home minister. The Delhi Fire Department reported that following the blast, nearby vehicles also caught fire and sustained damage.

Further details emerged as Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha informed reporters that the explosion originated from a slow-moving vehicle that had stopped at a red light. Eyewitnesses in the vicinity recounted hearing a "loud noise" when the explosion occurred.

In light of the explosion, a high alert was sounded across Delhi. Investigations are currently underway, with the dog squad, forensic team, and Delhi Police present at the scene. The exact nature of the blast remains unknown as efforts continue to uncover more information.