Quetta blast leaves 24 martyred, train derailed near Chaman Phatak

At least 24 people, including three Frontier Corps (FC) personnel, were martyred and more than 50 others were injured when an explosion took place near the railway track close to Chaman Phatak in Quetta on Sunday. The banned separatist outfit Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for Sunday’s attack. According to reports, the explosion caused extensive damage to several houses and buildings located near the railway track. Some train coaches were also overturned by the impact, with parts of the train catching fire. An emergency was imposed at government hospitals across Quetta, where doctors and medical personnel were directed to remain on duty to handle the situation. Videos circulating on social media showed burned vehicles and overturned train coaches, while thick black smoke could be seen rising from the area. Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind said that several women and children were also among the injured and were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. He stated that the attack targeted innocent civilians, adding that such incidents at public locations reflect the desperation of militant groups. Security forces swiftly sealed off the area and launched an investigation, with evidence collection currently underway, he added. Railway officials said the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express was halted at Quetta Railway Station as a precaution after the explosion. Home Minister’s spokesperson Babar Yousafzai said all relevant institutions had been placed on high alert following the incident. He also appealed to the public to avoid gathering near the blast site so that rescue and emergency operations could proceed without hindrance. According to police, the blast caused partial damage to a train in the area, while around 10 parked vehicles were affected. The force of the explosion further shattered windowpanes and glass panels of nearby buildings, spreading panic in the vicinity. In response to the incident, author