Blast in Zafar Express in Balochistan, 24 killed, 82 injured

At least 24 people were killed and 82 others injured in a blast in a shuttle train named Zafar Express in Pakistan's Balochistan province. The blast occurred near the Chaman Gate in Quetta on Sunday (May 24) morning. Panic spread throughout the area after the incident and a rapid rescue operation was launched.

Police and local sources said that the train was leaving Quetta Cantonment Station. A sudden powerful blast at around 8:05 am local time damaged several coaches of the train. The impact of the explosion caused several coaches to derail and two coaches to catch fire. It is reported that several nearby vehicles were also damaged.

According to initial information, members of the law enforcement agencies were also passengers on the train. Women and children are among the casualties, according to the relevant authorities.

Of the injured, 57 are in critical condition and 25 others have been admitted to the Quetta Civil Hospital. Doctors said that the death toll may rise as some of the people are in critical condition.

Initial investigations by security agencies suggest that powerful explosives were used in the blast. However, investigations are underway into the nature and nature of the attack and nothing has been confirmed yet.

Security forces cordoned off the entire area after the incident. Railway authorities have sent rescue teams and relief trains to the spot to assist in the rescue operation. In addition, investigations have been intensified to identify the cause of the explosion and those responsible.

Local administration said that additional security measures have been taken to control the situation and those involved in the incident are being investigated.