At least 26 people were killed and 62 injured in a suicide blast at Quetta Railway Station on Saturday. Local authorities and hospital officials reported the devastating attack, which targeted civilians and law enforcement personnel. The blast adds to a recent surge in violence, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, regions that have witnessed numerous terrorism-related incidents over the past year.
Provincial Health Department spokesperson Wasim Baig confirmed the death toll and said it included civilians and law enforcement personnel. Two of the injured succumbed to their wounds later, raising the total number of fatalities to 26. Baig also confirmed that 46 security personnel and 14 civilians sustained injuries, with several in critical condition.
Blast Targets Law Enforcement Personnel
Quetta Division Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat stated that the attack primarily targeted law enforcement personnel, although civilians were also affected. Speaking to Geo News, he confirmed the presence of security forces at the station and appealed to the public to stay away from the railway station, trauma center, and hospital to prevent further risk. Shafqaat emphasized the possibility of twin attacks, urging the public to remain cautious.
The banned militant group, Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), claimed responsibility for the attack. This incident comes after BLA’s previous attacks on infrastructure, including a railway bridge bombing that disrupted train services between Kolpur and Mach. The recent blast further intensifies security concerns in the region.
Following the explosion, Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar arrived at the Quetta Trauma Centre to oversee medical efforts. His office confirmed an emergency declaration in both the Civil Hospital and Trauma Centre, summoning additional doctors to manage the influx of injured victims. Six people are reportedly in critical condition, with three receiving intensive care.
Government Officials Condemn Attack
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, calling for a thorough investigation and vowing that terrorists “will pay a heavy price.” He expressed grief for the victims and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fighting terrorism. Acting President Yusuf Raza Gilani also denounced the blast, describing terrorists as enemies of humanity who target innocent lives. Both leaders expressed condolences and called for united efforts to eradicate terrorism.
In response to the attack, gatherings were banned in the Quetta area, and bus stations were placed on high alert. Authorities requested Pakistan Railways to temporarily suspend train services from the station as a precautionary measure. Police and security forces secured the blast site, with the Bomb Disposal Squad collecting evidence for further investigation.
Balochistan Chief Minister Promises Action
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack as part of an ongoing campaign against innocent civilians. He ordered an immediate investigation and promised that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. Bugti reassured the public of the government’s determination to root out terrorism, condemning those responsible as “worse than animals.”
Appeal for Blood Donations
In the wake of the tragedy, Commissioner Shafqaat appealed for blood donations for the injured. He called on the community to contribute to the treatment efforts, emphasizing the urgent need for support. Emergency response teams continue to work tirelessly, assisting families and attending to the wounded.
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