By our correspondent
QUETTA: A deadly blast at Quetta Railway Station, Pakistan Railways has temporarily suspended train operations from Quetta for four days. This precautionary measure, confirmed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan Railways, Ameer Ali Baloch, aims to ensure the safety of passengers amid heightened security risks in the region. Baloch explained that train services would resume once clearance is obtained from the relevant authorities.
Baloch expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts between the provincial government of Balochistan and security agencies, which had previously helped restore connectivity between Quetta and the rest of the country. Despite this temporary halt in operations, he reassured the public that the setback would not diminish Pakistan Railways’ commitment to providing safe and reliable transportation services.
Following the attack, fifty injured passengers are currently being treated at a trauma center, with medical teams from Pakistan Railways providing assistance. Baloch also praised the quick response from the Quetta division’s security and medical teams, who managed the immediate relief efforts following the blast. In light of the attack, Baloch assured that the families of both the deceased and injured would receive compensation through Pakistan Railways’ insurance policy, with all claims processed promptly.
Meanwhile, the government is taking additional steps to address the security situation. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in a high-level meeting on Sunday, pledged full federal support to Balochistan’s efforts to combat terrorism. Naqvi announced the expansion of intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across the province and outlined plans to bolster law enforcement agencies, including targeted training for Balochistan’s Police, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), Levies, and other security forces.
