Islamabad, March 11: A passenger train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan came under a violent attack on Tuesday, leaving the driver severely injured and over 450 passengers and staff feared to have been taken hostage, local media reports say.
The train, known as the Jaffar Express, was en route to Peshawar when it was targeted by intense gunfire near Pehro Kunri and Gadalar in Balochistan. According to Dawn News, the provincial government has ordered immediate emergency measures in response to the attack.
As reported by ARY News, the train's driver sustained critical injuries, and Samaa TV further mentioned that no communication has yet been established with the 450 people aboard the train, which consists of nine coaches. The Jaffar Express had left Quetta at 9 AM.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the BLA said it had successfully repelled a military ground assault following the capture of the train. The group claimed that, after intense fighting, Pakistani ground troops were forced to retreat, though airstrikes from helicopters and drones continue. The BLA warned that if the aerial bombardment did not cease immediately, they would execute all hostages if Pakistan attempted a military rescue operation.
Shahid Rind, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government, confirmed reports of heavy firing at the Jaffar Express between Pehro Kunri and Gadalar. The train, which was carrying approximately 500 passengers, was stopped in Tunnel No. 8 by armed men. Efforts are ongoing to establish contact with those aboard the train.
In response to the situation, an emergency has been declared at Sibi Hospital, with ambulances and security forces rushing to the scene. However, the spokesperson noted that the rocky terrain is making it difficult for officials to reach the area. The railway department has sent additional trains to assist with rescue operations. The scale of the incident and the possible involvement of terrorist groups are still under investigation.
The Balochistan government has ordered that emergency protocols be activated across all relevant institutions. Furthermore, an emergency has been declared at Civil Hospital Quetta, with staff being summoned to assist with potential casualties, according to Dr. Waseem Baig, a spokesperson for the health department.
This incident follows the recent resumption of train services between Quetta and Peshawar in October 2024, after a month-and-a-half-long suspension. The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected. (With ANI input)
