Deadly blast near Chaman railway crossing in Quetta kills 14, Including FC personnel

Quetta: A powerful explosion occurred near the Chaman railway crossing in the provincial capital Quetta, resulting in the deaths of 14 people, including FC personnel, while several others, including women and children, were injured.

According to Quetta Police, the blast took place on the railway track near Chaman Phatak. The explosion triggered a fire, causing three train coaches, including the engine, to derail. Two coaches overturned completely, one bogie was totally destroyed, while another suffered partial damage.

Railway authorities stated that following the explosion, the Jaffar Express bound for Peshawar was stopped at Quetta Railway Station.

Officials said that security forces cordoned off the area immediately after the blast. The explosion shattered the windows of nearby buildings and damaged vehicles parked near the railway track. An emergency was declared in government hospitals, and doctors along with medical staff were called in.

Rescue sources confirmed that more than 20 injured people were shifted to Civil Sandeman Hospital.

President Zardari Condemns the Attack

President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Quetta, stating that hostile elements aim to harm the people of Pakistan and divert attention from Pakistan’s global peace efforts.

He added that the world should witness the true face of terrorists and their supporters, who are unsuccessfully trying to undermine Pakistan’s efforts for international peace. He emphasized that Pakistan will defeat terrorists, their facilitators, financiers, and those providing them safe havens.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Statement

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the blast, saying cowardly attacks cannot weaken the nation’s resolve. He expressed solidarity with the people of Balochistan during this difficult time.

The Prime Minister offered condolences to the families of the victims and stated that every conspiracy aimed at disturbing peace in Balochistan would be foiled. He described targeting innocent civilians as an act against humanity and said the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the security forces.

Statement by Shahid Rind

Shahid Rind, special assistant to the Chief Minister of Balochistan, said that three FC soldiers were among the martyrs. He added that terrorists targeted unarmed civilians and described the attack as a cowardly act by enemies of peace.

He stated that evidence collection and investigations are underway, adding that targeting public places reflects the desperation of terrorists. He vowed that the sacrifices of the martyrs would not go in vain.

Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s Statement

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti strongly condemned the terrorist attack near Chaman Phatak, saying that terrorists are proving their brutality by targeting innocent civilians, women, and children.

In his statement, Bugti said that terrorists responsible for shedding the blood of innocent citizens deserve no leniency. He vowed that anti-state elements and their facilitators would be brought to justice one by one, adding that no safe haven for terrorists would remain in Balochistan.