Maharashtra on high alert after Delhi blast, security tightened across Mumbai and key railway stations

Mumbai: In the aftermath of a deadly car blast near Red Fort metro station in New Delhi on Monday evening, which killed nine people and injured 20, Maharashtra has been placed on high alert. Security measures have been intensified across Mumbai and major railway stations to prevent any untoward incidents, officials said.

According to senior police officials, a “precautionary alert” has been issued across the state. All unit commanders, district police chiefs and city commissioners have been instructed to remain vigilant and enhance surveillance at sensitive locations and public places.

In Mumbai, police presence has been significantly increased at vital installations and transport hubs. The Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) have intensified patrolling and deployed bomb detection and disposal squads at major railway stations, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), Dadar, Thane and Kalyan.

Passengers have been urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity or unattended baggage. “We are on high alert and have stepped up security across all key stations,” a senior RPF official told PTI.

A Central Railway spokesperson said baggage scanning and random checks are being carried out on platforms and trains, while a Western Railway spokesperson confirmed enhanced coordination between RPF, GRP and local police to ensure public safety.

Police have also set up barricades and checkpoints at Mumbai’s entry points, including Dahisar, Thane, Vashi and Airoli, with vehicles and passengers being screened thoroughly. Combing operations are underway at crowded markets and public areas.

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Anti-Terrorism Cells (ATC) of local police stations have been activated to gather intelligence and monitor suspicious movements both offline and online.

Security has also been tightened in Nagpur, where ATS and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) are patrolling sensitive zones. Additional forces have been deployed at markets, temples, educational institutions and transport hubs, officials said.

Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal confirmed that all DCPs and police station in-charges have been directed to stay alert 24×7, while SP (Rural) Dr. Harssh Poddar said surveillance has been stepped up near Ramtek Gad Mandir and local explosives factories due to their sensitivity.

(with inputs from agencies)