In the aftermath of the recent Delhi car blast near the Red Fort, the Uttarakhand Police have launched a comprehensive investigation to trace the source and movement of chemicals that may have been used in the explosion. Specialised police teams have been formed in Dehradun and nearby regions to monitor chemical transactions and identify individuals who may have purchased or stored suspicious materials in recent months.
Under the supervision of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajay Singh, teams conducted surprise inspections at chemical shops and warehouses across Dehradun and Rishikesh. Chemicals including sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, and sulphur, which can be used in making explosives, were placed under special scrutiny. Police officials examined stock registers, invoices, and customer records, and have seized documents for detailed forensic analysis.
According to officials, five chemical shops, four in the city kotwali area and one in Rishikesh, have been identified as potential points of concern due to irregular documentation and the absence of verified buyer details. The SSP stated that the identities of all recent buyers are being thoroughly verified and cross-checked with the Delhi Police and intelligence agencies.
The Dehradun Police have issued strict directions to all chemical dealers and wholesalers to sell only to licensed buyers and maintain complete records of each sale, including valid identity proofs and invoices. Police units across the district have intensified patrols and are conducting area-specific checks to ensure no unlicensed trade of hazardous substances takes place.
Additionally, the state’s Bomb Disposal Squad and Dog Squad units have been placed on high alert. Security at railway stations, bus stands, and transport hubs has been tightened to prevent any movement of banned materials. The state intelligence department has also instructed district police officers to report any suspicious chemical purchases immediately.
Senior officers have confirmed that the ongoing probe will determine whether any chemical supplies from Uttarakhand were linked to the Delhi blast. The investigation is also examining the possibility of unregistered chemical vendors supplying substances without clearance. Officials have indicated that a centralised digital tracking system for chemical purchases is being proposed to prevent similar incidents in future.
Authorities emphasised that all shops found violating the Chemical Safety and Regulation Act will face immediate suspension of trade licences and possible legal prosecution.
