Panic gripped New Delhi's high-security Central Vista zone on Monday after thick, ominous smoke was seen rising from behind the North Block. Emergency services were immediately mobilized, with the Department of Fire Services rushing fire tenders to the location.
The incident drew swift attention when Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora, en route to Parliament, observed the dark plumes and voiced his concerns on social media, hoping for a rapid response from emergency teams.
Investigation Underway at Historic Site
Authorities confirmed that the cause of the smoke, its exact origin, and the extent of any potential damage were not immediately known. As rescue operations and inspections continued at the site, there were no immediate reports of injuries or casualties.
The North Block, situated in the heart of the national capital near Parliament House, traditionally houses crucial Union government offices, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Finance. However, following the transition of these offices to new complexes like Seva Teerth and Kartavya Bhawan in early 2026, the historic structure is currently being emptied to be repurposed into the planned Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum.