Deadly Blast in Quetta: Tragedy and Tension in Balochistan

A suicide bombing at Quetta Railway Station in Pakistan's Balochistan province has killed at least 26 and injured 62. The Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack targeting law enforcement. Authorities are investigating the incident as hospitals remain on high alert, treating the injured.

A catastrophic explosion at Quetta Railway Station in Pakistan's Balochistan province resulted in at least 26 fatalities on Saturday, as reported by local authorities and hospital officials to Dawn. Provincial health department spokesperson Wasim Baig confirmed the death toll increased to 26 following the deaths of two more victims, with 62 others injured in the blast.

Quetta Division Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat identified the explosion as a suicide attack aimed primarily at law enforcement agencies, though civilians were also affected. The Balochistan Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind stated that police and security forces promptly arrived at the scene, with an investigation launched to determine the nature of the blast. The Bomb Disposal Squad is collecting evidence, and a report has been requested.

A state of emergency has been declared in local hospitals to provide medical assistance to the injured. Ameer of the Jamaat-e-Islami, Naeem ur Rehman, highlighted the serious security concerns the incident raised. Footage from Dawn News depicted debris scattered across the railway station platform. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack as targeting innocent civilians and vowed those responsible would face justice, emphasizing that terrorists focusing on civilians, workers, and children deserve no leniency.

(With inputs from agencies.)