At least 21 people died and 46 others were injured in a powerful bomb blast at a crowded railway station in Pakistan’s volatile Balochistan province on Saturday, according to officials.
The explosion struck Quetta’s railway station as passengers gathered on the platform, awaiting the Jaffar Express’s departure to Peshawar.
Senior Superintendent of Police Operations Muhammad Baloch noted that preliminary evidence suggests a possible suicide bombing. “The death toll stands at 21, but the number of victims could increase,” he said.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack. Initial reports indicated the blast occurred near the booking office, causing chaos as passengers scrambled for safety.
Rescue teams and law enforcement swiftly responded, cordoning off the site and transporting the injured to Civil Hospital Quetta. Provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind said that emergency services were immediately activated, with additional medical personnel called in to handle the influx of patients.
“So far, 46 injured have been shifted for treatment,” Rind confirmed.
The explosion was strong enough to damage the platform’s roof and was reportedly heard across various parts of the city.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the bombing, calling it “a horrific act targeting innocent civilians.”
He noted a disturbing trend of terrorists attacking civilians, including women and children. Bugti pledged a thorough investigation, vowing that those behind the attack would face relentless pursuit.
