UK Updates Travel Advisory Following Deadly Explosion Near Delhi’s Red Fort

In a major security alert for travellers, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the United Kingdom has updated its travel advisory for India, following a devastating car blast near the Red Fort (Lal Qila) metro station in Delhi on Monday evening. At least 12 people have been reported killed and more than 20 wounded in the explosion, prompting Indian authorities to invoke anti-terror laws and raise nationwide alerts.

Deadly Blast Near Red Fort And Rising Toll

The explosion occurred around 6:52 pm local time on November 10, 2025, at a traffic signal near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi. A white Hyundai i20 reportedly detonated after having been parked or waiting nearby for several hours, according to initial investigations. The force of the blast damaged multiple vehicles, ignited fires, and caused pandemonium in the crowded Old Delhi quarter.

The latest confirmed death toll stands at 13, with many more injured. Investigators have registered the case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), India’s principal anti-terrorism legislation, and say the explosion may have been a fidayeen (suicide) attack connected to a terror module that was allegedly uncovered in nearby Faridabad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as a “conspiracy” and assured that all involved would be brought to justice.

UK Travel Advisory: What British Nationals Should Know

In response to the incident, the UK’s FCDO updated its travel advice for British nationals in India, especially in Delhi. The guidance states: “There has been an explosion at the Red Fort (Lal Qila) Metro Station, New Delhi. If you’re in the immediate area, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local media.”

The advisory underscores that travel insurance could become invalid if one travels against official advice. Additionally, longstanding warnings remain in place for travel within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border, and for the Kashmir and Manipur regions, with the Red Fort blast prompting sharper scrutiny of security risks in the region.

British citizens are urged to remain vigilant, avoid large crowds and popular tourist sites in affected areas, stay updated via local media, and follow instructions from Indian authorities.

(With reports from various sources.)

FAQs

1. Why did the UK update its travel advisory for India?
The UK’s FCDO updated its advisory following a deadly explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort that killed 13 people, urging travellers to remain cautious.

2. Is it safe for British nationals to travel to Delhi now?
Authorities advise exercising increased caution, avoiding crowded areas near Red Fort and Old Delhi, and following local police and embassy updates.

3. What should travellers do if they are currently in Delhi?
Travellers should stay indoors if near affected zones, follow instructions from local authorities, and check for real-time updates on official FCDO channels.

4. Will travel insurance be affected by the new UK advisory?
Yes. Travelling against official government advice may invalidate your travel insurance coverage, so review policy terms before travelling.

5. Which areas in India are under the highest security alert?
High-risk zones include central Delhi, parts of Old Delhi near Red Fort, and sensitive border regions in Jammu & Kashmir and Manipur.