Blast targets military train in Pakistan, 24 dead
A devastating explosion struck a train carrying military personnel and their families in Pakistan’s southwestern province of Balochistan today, leaving at least 24 people dead and more than 50 injured, according to senior officials.
The tragic incident happened in Quetta, the provincial capital, as the train was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar. Officials said army servicemen were among those killed and wounded in the powerful blast.
Disturbing scenes from the site showed a heavily damaged train carriage overturned beside the tracks while rescue teams and civilians rushed to search for survivors. Blood-stained victims were carried away on stretchers as security personnel secured the area.
Authorities revealed that the explosion occurred near Chaman Pattak in Quetta when a car packed with explosives rammed into one of the train carriages, triggering a massive blast. The force of the explosion shattered windows and damaged nearby vehicles.
Another official stated that many of the passengers were military personnel travelling with their families to celebrate the upcoming Eid holiday, which begins on Tuesday.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by land area, has long struggled with poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment. The region has witnessed ongoing unrest for years, with separatist groups accusing the government of exploiting the province’s rich natural gas and mineral resources while failing to provide adequate benefits to local communities.
The attack has once again raised concerns over security and stability in the region as rescue operations and investigations continue.
Source: AFP