New Delhi, Jan 29 (UNI) A low intensity blast occurred near the Israel embassy at APJ Abdul Kalam road here on Friday.
No casualty or injury was reported. Windscreens of three to four vehicles were damaged, the Police said. Teams of special cell, bomb disposal squad and forensic have reached the spot and picking up initial evidence and other materials used in blast.
The blast occurred near Jindal House, which is just about 1.5-km-away from Vijay Chowk where the Beating Retreat ceremony was underway. Notably, the blast site lies under a high security zone and not far away from the 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, the official residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Delhi Fire Service received a call at around 1710 hrs of the blast, a fire official said. Immediately, fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse a minor fire which broke due to the blast.
Initial impression hints of a mischievous attempt to create a sensation, police said.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said he had spoken to his Israeli counterpart and assured full protection to the staff.
"Spoke just now to Israeli FM @Gabi_Ashkenazi about the explosion outside the Israeli Embassy. We take this very seriously. Assured him of the fullest protection for the Embassy and Israeli diplomats. Matter is under investigation and no effort will be spared to find the culprits," Dr Jaishankar tweeted.
The Israel Foreign Minister in a statement said all diplomats and other staff in New Delhi are safe and in constant touch with Indian authorities.
Meanwhile, the Centre has issued an alert for all airports, important installations and the Government Buildings across the country.
According to a official in the security set up, additional deployment of security personnel has been asked for airport’s forecourts and alighting area at departure gate at all airports with additional deployment of CISF commandos there.
In February 2012 too, a blast had occurred in the same locality in which a lady official of the Israel Embassy was injured. Two motorcycle borne miscreants had used a sticker bomb at the back of a vehicle.
UNI AKS PS JAL 2108