A devastating suicide bombing at the Quetta Railway Station has claimed the lives of at least 25 individuals and left over 50 injured, according to Express News. The attack targeted the platform as passengers were preparing to board the Jafar Express, which was scheduled to depart for Peshawar at 9:00 am. The banned militant group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the blast.
Immediate Aftermath of the Quetta Railway Station Bombing
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Law enforcement and rescue teams swiftly responded to the scene of the explosion, which caused widespread panic among the passengers. Emergency services were immediately dispatched, and the injured were rushed to the Civil Hospital in Quetta, where an emergency was declared.
Dr. Abdul Sattar, Medical Superintendent at Civil Hospital, confirmed that the casualties included both men and women, with several in critical condition. “Among the injured, 46 have been brought to Civil Hospital, where they are receiving immediate medical attention,” a hospital spokesperson stated.
Eyewitness Accounts and Police Statements
The blast, which appeared to be a suicide attack, also injured two railway police officers, Head Constables Ghulam Rasool Jamali and Bhoral Khan, according to SSP Operations Muhammad Baloch. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos and devastation as the crowded platform was rocked by the explosion.
Official Reactions and Condemnations
Statements from Government Officials
In response to the attack, Balochistan Chief Minister Sardar Baloch condemned the bombing and called for an immediate investigation into the incident. He expressed his anger over the continued targeting of innocent civilians, stating that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. “These terrorists are now targeting ordinary civilians, workers, women, and children, and they will be held accountable,” Baloch said.
Further Details from Provincial Authorities
Provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rand and Health Minister Bakht Kakr spoke to the media, suggesting that the blast appeared to be a suicide bombing and confirmed that several victims’ conditions remained critical. “Seven injured persons are in critical condition,” Rand noted.
Security Measures and Investigations
Meanwhile, the Quetta Division Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat and deputy commissioner of Quetta confirmed that the bombing was likely carried out by a suicide bomber who bypassed the station’s walk-through gates. “The attacker entered through the open entry points of the station,” the Commissioner said, adding that authorities had initiated snap-checking in various parts of the city and that police and Frontier Corps had been deployed for increased security.
Context and Background of the Attack
Recent Resumption of Train Services
Pakistan Railways had resumed train services between Quetta and Peshawar on October 11, following a suspension of over six weeks. The suspension had been enforced after a blast on August 26 destroyed a crucial railway bridge between Kolpur and Mach, an attack also claimed by the BLA as part of a series of coordinated assaults across the province.
BLA’s Continued Threat
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has a history of targeting infrastructure and security forces in the region, aiming to disrupt government operations and instill fear among the populace. This recent attack underscores the persistent threat posed by militant groups in Balochistan and the challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring public safety.
ALSO READ:
Investigation and Security Enhancements
Immediate Investigations
Authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the bombing, aiming to identify and apprehend those responsible. Security measures at the Quetta Railway Station and other critical infrastructure have been significantly enhanced to prevent further incidents.
Statements from Law Enforcement
SSP Operations Muhammad Baloch stated, “We are working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the attack and to bring those responsible to justice. Increased security protocols have been implemented across the city.”
FAQs
1. What happened at the Quetta Railway Station? A suicide bombing occurred at the Quetta Railway Station, targeting the Jafar Express as passengers gathered on the platform. The attack resulted in at least 25 deaths and over 50 injuries.
2. Who claimed responsibility for the Quetta Railway Station bombing? The banned militant group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack.
3. What measures are being taken in response to the attack? Authorities have launched an investigation and increased security measures across Quetta. Law enforcement is conducting snap-checking in various parts of the city, and additional police and Frontier Corps personnel have been deployed.
4. What was the immediate response to the bombing? Emergency services and law enforcement quickly responded to the scene. The injured were transported to Civil Hospital in Quetta, where an emergency was declared.
5. What is the background of the Balochistan Liberation Army? The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a militant group that has carried out numerous attacks in the region, targeting infrastructure, security forces, and civilians in its efforts to destabilize the government and instill fear.
Conclusion
The tragic bombing at the Quetta Railway Station has highlighted the ongoing security challenges in Balochistan. As authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice and enhance security measures, the resilience and unity of the affected communities remain paramount. The swift response of emergency services and the resolve of government officials to hold those responsible accountable are crucial steps in addressing this heinous act of terrorism.
