Balochistan Attack: Bomb Blast on Train Carrying Pakistani Soldiers Kills at Least 24

Authorities have reported that a bomb explosion targeting a train carrying soldiers in Pakistan has resulted in at least 24 deaths. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, with more than 70 people injured. The blast took place near the Chaman Phatak station in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan. Railway officials stated that following the explosion, three carriages and the engine derailed, with two carriages overturning. The train was carrying soldiers and their families who were returning home for Eid.

The government of Balochistan has blamed the separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) for this suicide bombing. The BLA has already claimed responsibility for the attack. Photos and videos from the scene show burnt and damaged train carriages, as well as damage to a nearby building.

Local resident Nasir Ahmad told reporters, “The train was moving with passengers on board when the explosion happened.” According to him, his family was asleep when the blast shattered their home’s windows on Sunday morning. Eyewitnesses reported that a vehicle carrying explosives collided with the train, triggering the explosion.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack, stating, “Such terrorist acts cannot weaken the resolve of the Pakistani people.” Hospitals treating the injured have declared an emergency status. The BLA has a history of targeting trains in Balochistan.