New Delhi, Nov 11 (NationPress) Following a devastating explosion that occurred near the Red Fort, Delhi awoke on Tuesday to an atmosphere of enhanced security and a tense stillness enveloping the historic Chandni Chowk area. The renowned Lajpat Rai Market, situated just opposite the explosion site, remained closed following directives from law enforcement and investigative bodies.

Local traders indicated that this decision was made collectively in the morning after officials recommended keeping the area clear for crucial evidence gathering. "Numerous metallic and charred fragments landed on our shops after the blast. These could be vital for forensic analysis, hence the police requested us to close for the day," shared a trader from the market.

Investigators from various agencies, including forensic teams, commenced their meticulous examination of the site early Tuesday, carefully gathering debris and scrutinizing damaged vehicles.

The Central Radio and Electronics Merchants Association (CREMA), which represents the traders of Old Lajpat Rai Market, confirmed that the entire vicinity has been sealed for a thorough inspection. "We have urged all shop owners to fully cooperate and inform their staff, manufacturers, and customers to avoid the area today," stated CREMA President Sanjay Nagpal, emphasizing that this would alleviate congestion and allow investigators to proceed without hindrance.

This normally vibrant market, recognized as the electronics hub of Old Delhi, attracts traders from all over India. Typically, its narrow lanes buzz with activity, but on Tuesday, the usual sounds of negotiation and shop openings were replaced by an eerie silence and the crackle of police radios.

The Red Fort has also been temporarily closed to tourists as a safety measure. Nonetheless, nearby markets, including the main Chandni Chowk, Camera Market, Gold and Silver Market, and Clothing Market, remained operational.

However, foot traffic was noticeably sparse, with traders reporting a significant decline in visitors.

The Red Fort Metro Station continues to function, although some entry points have been temporarily closed. Gate No. 2 and another entrance remain open for commuters, according to police.

At the nearby Gauri Shankar Temple, rituals and prayers proceeded as usual on Tuesday, with devotees gathering to offer their prayers.

Residents in the vicinity, still reeling from Monday evening’s explosion, recounted the shock that reverberated through Old Delhi’s crowded streets. "The blast was so intense that the glass panes of several shops shattered instantly," remarked Subhash Chakraborty, Vice President of the local Resident Welfare Association.

Schools in the surrounding areas, including those in Daryaganj and Civil Lines, remained open. "There is apprehension, but life must continue," Chakraborty stated, adding: "Local residents are fully cooperating with the police and are prepared to assist in any manner possible."

The explosion site near the Red Fort remains cordoned off, with traffic redirected from Netaji Subhash Marg and nearby roads. Traders highlighted that the area’s persistent traffic issues, illegal parking, and encroachments had made the narrow stretch especially vulnerable. "Even on typical days, the congestion here is unbearable. After the blast, it turned chaotic," noted Rajesh Kumar, who operates a shop in the Camera Market, situated about a hundred meters from the blast site.

"Most of us closed our shops immediately after the explosion on Monday evening to ensure everyone’s safety," he added.

Panic swiftly spread throughout the nearby Cycle Market, Watch Market, and Lajpat Rai Market, where hundreds of traders shuttered their shops within minutes of the blast.

Police teams, along with sniffer dogs and bomb disposal units, continued to sweep the area on Tuesday, as investigators sought clues regarding the cause of the devastating explosion that resulted in at least eight fatalities and numerous injuries.