NEW DELHI: A car exploded near the historic Red Fort in India’s capital on Monday, killing at least eight people, injuring several others, and triggering a fire that damaged multiple vehicles parked nearby, New Delhi police said.

Several fire engines rushed to the scene after the blast was reported near one of the gates of the Red Fort metro station, according to city fire services. The cause of the explosion remained under investigation.

Sanjay Tyagi, a spokesperson for the New Delhi Police, confirmed that at least eight people were killed and several others injured in the incident. “We are investigating the cause of the blast,” he said.

According to Indian media reports, the explosion was caused by a gas leak from a CNG cylinder installed in the car, which led to the deadly blast.

The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of New Delhi’s most visited tourist attractions, was cordoned off as security forces and rescue teams responded to the scene. Local television footage showed burnt vehicles and heavy police deployment around the area.

A resident living near the site told NDTV that he heard a “window-shattering sound” followed by flames engulfing several vehicles.

Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to confirm the exact cause of the explosion and assess whether any foul play was involved.