QUETTA: A powerful explosion near the Chaman Phatak railway track in Quetta has claimed at least 16 lives and left several others injured, according to officials. The tragic Quetta blast occurred close to a moving train and triggered panic across the city as the sound of the explosion was heard in distant areas.
Police officials said the blast took place near a railway track while the Jaffar Express was passing through the area. The force of the explosion caused severe damage to nearby buildings, shattering windows and glass panes. A fire also erupted near the railway section immediately after the blast, creating chaos among passengers and residents.
Railway authorities confirmed that the Jaffar Express, which was scheduled to travel towards Peshawar, was stopped at Quetta railway station following the incident. Security officials quickly reached the site and cordoned off the entire area for investigation and rescue work.
According to rescue sources, more than 20 injured people were shifted to Civil Sandeman Hospital in Quetta. An emergency was declared at major hospitals across the city, while doctors, paramedics, and medical staff were called in to deal with the large number of casualties.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that the death toll had risen to 16. He stated that three FC personnel were among the martyrs. Women and children were also injured in the deadly Quetta explosion and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Shahid Rind strongly condemned the attack, calling it a cowardly act carried out by terrorist elements targeting innocent civilians. He said such attacks reveal the desperation of anti-state forces trying to create instability in Balochistan.
Security forces have launched a full investigation into the railway track blast, while evidence collection is underway at the scene. Authorities have also placed all relevant departments in Quetta on high alert to ensure effective rescue operations and strengthen security measures after the deadly incident.
