Quetta train operations suspended amid security issues

Train services from Quetta railway station have been suspended for four days due to security concerns. According to a spokesperson for Pakistan Railways (PR), the station will be closed from November 11 to November 14.

The Bolan Mail will resume service from Karachi to Quetta on November 16, with its return journey from Quetta to Karachi scheduled for November 18.

Additionally, the Jaffar Express will depart from Peshawar to Quetta on November 14, returning from Quetta on November 15.

The suspension comes a day after a deadly explosion at Quetta railway station’s platform killed at least 26 people and injured over 40 others, including women and children.

Commissioner Quetta Hamza Shafqaat reported that the blast occurred at 8:25 a.m. as passengers gathered for the departure of the Jaffar Express.

Railway officials confirmed that both the Chaman Passenger and Jaffar Express trains were preparing to depart from Quetta to Chaman and Peshawar, respectively, with passengers present on the platform when the explosion occurred.

Acting President Yousaf Raza Gillani condemned the attack and pledged all efforts toward eradicating terrorism. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for an investigation report, warning that terrorists will face severe consequences for their actions.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that terrorists are attempting to destabilize Pakistan but assured that the nation will thwart their plans.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also condemned the attack, emphasizing that those who harm innocent people will receive no leniency and voicing support for measures to eliminate terrorists and their networks.