Islamabad, Pakistan – A deadly attack struck Pakistan’s restive southwestern province of Balochistan on Sunday morning, targeting a train carrying military personnel. At least 24 people were killed and others injured, according to initial reports, with the death toll expected to rise.
Details of the attack
The explosion occurred near the Chaman Fatek area of Quetta shortly after 8:00 AM, as the train was traveling from the military zone to the main railway station. According to Pakistan Railways, the blast was so powerful that it was heard throughout the city. As a result, three carriages derailed and two overturned. This led to a massive fire that engulfed several vehicles near the site.
Rescue teams and security forces rushed to the scene immediately after the explosion, cordoning off the area and beginning rescue operations and the recovery of victims. Firefighters also worked to control the fires that broke out in nearby vehicles as a result of the force of the blast. The explosion also caused material damage to surrounding homes.
Official condemnations and external accusations
Prime Minister Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “brutal act of terrorism” that reflected the bloodthirstiness of its perpetrators. In sharp remarks, Bugti accused terrorist groups, which the government refers to as “Fitna India,” of being behind the attack. He also suggested the involvement of foreign actors seeking to destabilize the country.
For his part, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi condemned this “cowardly act,” asserting that anti-Pakistan elements based in India and Afghanistan are attempting to spread fear and chaos through such operations. Abbasi stated that these malicious schemes will not succeed in undermining the nation’s resolve. He emphasized that the “enemies of humanity” will face a disgraceful end. He also affirmed that Pakistan Railways operations will continue uninterrupted.
This incident comes amid heightened security tensions in Balochistan province. Counter-terrorism teams and explosives experts have arrived at the scene to begin technical investigations, determine the nature of the explosive device, and identify those responsible for the attack. This is one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent times.
