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Gunmen Attack Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Emergency Declared
Gunmen attack Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Bolan district. Train halted in a mountainous region, emergency declared. Govt assessing situation.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-11
Gunmen Attack Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Emergency Declared

Reports of intense firing on a Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express near Bolan district, Balochistan, emerged on Tuesday. While details about casualties remain unclear, an emergency has been declared in nearby hospitals as rescue teams struggle to reach the site due to rugged terrain.

Train Stopped in a Mountainous Region

According to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind, the attack took place between Pehro Kunri and Gadalar, a remote mountainous area known for insurgent activity.

  • Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif confirmed that the train, with nine coaches and 500 passengers on board, was halted inside Tunnel No. 8 by armed assailants.
  • Security officials are making efforts to contact passengers and crew members.
  • A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, described the area as a militant stronghold, complicating rescue efforts.

Rescue Efforts Underway

  • The Balochistan government has imposed an emergency at Sibi hospital, while ambulances and security forces are en route.
  • Civil Hospital Quetta has also declared an emergency, summoning all consultants, doctors, nurses, and paramedics, according to Health Department spokesperson Dr Waseem Baig.
  • Pakistan Railways has dispatched additional trains to aid in rescue operations.

Government and Political Response

  • Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack, stating:

"The beasts who fire on innocent passengers do not deserve any concessions."

  • Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar also denounced the incident, asserting that anti-state forces would be dealt with firmly.

Context: Rising Terrorist Attacks in Balochistan

Balochistan has witnessed a sharp rise in terrorist activity in recent months:

  • November 2024: A suicide blast at Quetta Railway Station killed 26 people and injured 62.
  • January 2025: A security report by Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) revealed that 95% of Pakistan’s terror attacks in 2024 occurred in KP and Balochistan.
  • Attacks by Baloch insurgent groups, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), surged by 119%, with 171 recorded incidents in Balochistan alone.

Uncertain Situation

As authorities continue to assess the situation, the scale of the attack and possible terrorist involvement remain under investigation. Officials have urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation.

 
Tagged:

Terrorism

PakistanSecurity

BalochistanAttack

PakistanRailways

JaffarExpress
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