Quetta, Pakistan

Pakistan Railways have temporarily suspended all train operations to and from the Quetta station in the aftermath of the deadly blast at Quetta station that claimed 26 lives and injured 62 on Saturday (Nov 9). The suspension will be in effect for five days and aims to ensure passenger safety amid heightened concerns.

Advertisment

The suspension

According to ARY News citing a railway spokesperson, the Quetta station will remain closed from November 11 to 14.

Its closure is expected to impact several key routes — the Bolan Mail will resume its services after the closure, departing from Karachi to Quetta on November 16, and its return to Karachi is scheduled for November 18. Additionally, the Jaffar Express will depart from Peshawar to Quetta on November 14 and make the return journey on November 15.

Advertisment

Also read | Blast at Quetta Railway Station in Pakistan: Death toll at 26, BLA claims responsibility for attack

The explosion, which occurred just as the Jaffar Express was set to depart, shook the station during a busy time with many passengers on the platform. Pakistan railway authorities further reported that both the Chaman Passenger and Jaffar Express were prepared for departure when the blast went off, passengers of both the trains were present on the platform at the time of the explosion.

“Terrorists will pay a heavy price”

Advertisment

Pakistan’s leaders have responded strongly to the attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for a comprehensive investigation, and declared that “Terrorists will pay a heavy price for their heinous act”.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi noted that the attack appeared aimed at destabilising the country but emphasised that “the nation will foil their designs”.

Also read | Multan’s AQI remains at 1900 as thick smog blankets Pakistan

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the People’s Party Chairman also condemned the attack, stating that such acts against innocent citizens deserve zero leniency and voicing support for actions to eliminate terrorist elements.

“We are backing all steps to get rid of the terrorists and their facilitators,” he said.

This incident has drawn attention to Pakistan’s ongoing security challenges, with officials vowing stronger protections to safeguard citizens.

(With inputs from agencies)