At least 20 people were injured in a blast that targeted a railway track in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province on Tuesday, officials said. The explosion occurred near a passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, causing panic among passengers and disrupting rail services.
Details of the Incident
The blast took place in the Mastung district, approximately 50 kilometers south of Quetta, the provincial capital. According to railway officials, the explosive device was planted on the track and detonated as the train approached. The force of the blast damaged the track and caused several train carriages to derail.
Rescue teams and security forces rushed to the scene. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, with some in critical condition. Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the attack.
Security Concerns in Balochistan
Balochistan has long been plagued by separatist insurgency and sectarian violence. Militant groups often target infrastructure, including railways and highways, to destabilize the region. This latest attack underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by Pakistan in the province.
No group has claimed responsibility for the blast so far. However, similar attacks in the past have been linked to Baloch separatist groups. The Pakistani government has condemned the incident and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Railway services on the affected route have been suspended pending repairs. Passengers have been advised to use alternative transportation. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of rail travel in the region.
