Blast on Jaffar Express Shuttle in Balochistan Leaves 24 Dead, Scores Injured

Quetta: At least 24 people lost their lives and 82 others were injured after a powerful explosion targeted a shuttle of the Jaffar Express in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Sunday.

According to police sources, the shuttle was carrying law enforcement personnel returning home for Eid holidays. The train had just departed from Quetta Cantonment when the blast took place at around 8:05 am local time.

The explosion caused several bogies to derail, while two coaches caught fire. Nearby vehicles were also damaged in the impact. Officials said women and children were among those killed and injured.

Of the injured passengers, 57 were shifted to a military hospital, while 25 others were admitted to Civil Hospital in Quetta for treatment.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the attack may have been carried out using a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device containing more than 70 kg of explosives.

As reported by local media outlet ARY News, Balochistan’s Special Assistant for Home Affairs said authorities are gathering further details about the incident and more information will be shared soon.

Following the blast, security agencies across the region have been placed on high alert. Residents have also been advised to avoid the area as rescue and emergency operations continue.

Police officials said the force of the explosion damaged nearby buildings and shattered window panes in surrounding areas. Security personnel have cordoned off the site while rescue teams continue relief efforts.

The incident comes days after Section 144 was imposed across Balochistan as a precaution against possible terror threats. The restrictions, imposed for 30 days, include a ban on carrying weapons, double riding on motorcycles, and public gatherings of five or more people.

With inputs from IANS