Local businesses, especially those reliant on tourism and daily foot traffic near the Red Fort, continue to suffer heavy losses
NEW DELHI – The closure of the iconic Red Fort after Monday’s bomb blast near it has significant economic implications, with estimated daily losses ranging from Rs 11-12 lakh. The closure of the road besides the Mughal monument has disrupted the daily commute of thousands, forcing them to seek alternative, often more expensive, transportation options.
The economic impact extends beyond just transportation costs. Local businesses, especially those reliant on tourism and daily foot traffic near the Red Fort, are suffering heavy losses. The blast and subsequent closure may also deter tourists, affecting the hospitality and tourism sectors. Authorities are working to restore normalcy, but the full extent of the economic fallout will depend on the duration of the closure and the effectiveness of response measures
Monday’s car blast reportedly killed about a dozen people and injured scores of others.
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Quila, is not only a symbol of India’s independence but also a centre of history and culture. It houses numerous artefacts reflecting India’s glorious past and draws large numbers of domestic and international tourists daily.
Following the attack, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) immediately closed the Red Fort for three days. In a statement, an ASI official said, “We appeal to all visitors not to come to the Red Fort or its surroundings unnecessarily during this period. Safety and security are our top priorities.”
The Red Fort generates significant daily revenue from tourism. According to official data, the monument earns between 11 to 12 lakh rupees per day during peak season, from October to March. This includes ticket sales, video camera fees, and light-and-sound show tickets.
A tourism expert explained, “The Red Fort is one of Delhi’s main attractions. Its closure even for a few days results in substantial financial losses for the government and the local economy.”
In 2023–24, the Red Fort earned a total of ₹18.09 crore from ticket sales, welcoming 22.64 lakh visitors, including 22.15 lakh domestic and 49,000 foreign tourists. On average, this meant around 6,200 tourists daily, generating roughly ₹4.96 lakh per day.
For the period April–December 2024–25, estimates indicate a total of 28.78 lakh visitors, with 27.94 lakh domestic tourists and 84,000 foreign visitors. During peak tourist days, more than 50,000 people visit the Red Fort, producing daily revenues of 11–12 lakh rupees.
A senior ASI official stated, “While the revenue loss is significant, our primary concern is the safety of visitors and staff. Security measures will be strengthened before reopening.”
Domestic visitors, including those from SAARC and BEAMSTEC countries, pay between ₹35 and ₹50 for entry, while foreign tourists pay ₹550. Additional revenue comes from video camera fees of ₹25 and light-and-sound show tickets ranging from ₹60 to ₹80.
The significant difference between peak and off-season earnings is noteworthy. From October to March, the Red Fort generates 10–15 lakh rupees per day, whereas during the off-season, daily revenue falls to 2–3 lakh rupees.
Citizens expressed shock and sorrow over the attack. One local resident said, “It is heartbreaking to see such an attack on a monument that represents our history and freedom. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims.”
A tourist visiting Delhi added, “I was planning to see the Red Fort this week. Now, safety concerns are paramount, and I completely understand the closure.”
The incident has put a temporary halt to the bustling activity around the Red Fort. Security agencies are conducting thorough investigations, while the government reviews measures to prevent such attacks in the future.
“The Red Fort stands as a symbol of our nation’s resilience,” an official said. “We will ensure that it continues to welcome visitors safely and proudly.”
