Kolkata on Alert After Delhi Blast, Tight Security at Eden Gardens

India’s capital was shaken by a deadly explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday evening, leaving at least eight people dead and several others injured. In the aftermath of the incident, security forces across the country have gone on high alert. As a result, extra security measures have been implemented around Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, where the India–South Africa Test series is set to begin.

The first Test between the two teams is scheduled to start on November 14. With both sides currently in Kolkata, local authorities have intensified security arrangements. According to India Today, surveillance around the stadium has been strengthened, with increased vehicle checks, enhanced CCTV monitoring, and strict oversight during players’ travel, practice sessions, and match days.

Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha stated that the explosion occurred at 6:52 p.m. near the Red Fort Metro Station when a slow-moving car stopped at a traffic signal. The powerful blast damaged several nearby vehicles. Golcha added that the recovered chemical explosives could have been used to spread panic across Delhi.

Following the incident, Kolkata Police has drawn up a special security plan. The city’s Police Commissioner Manoj Verma is set to visit Eden Gardens on Tuesday to personally review the arrangements. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) is working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of players, officials, and spectators. Security has also been tightened at the hotels where both teams are staying.

During a joint meeting between CAB and police officials, detailed plans for additional security measures were finalized. The second and final Test of the series will begin in Guwahati on November 22, followed by a three-match ODI and a five-match T20I series.

Meanwhile, security has also been beefed up at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, located just a few kilometers from the blast site, where a Ranji Trophy match between Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir is currently underway, India Today reported.