Terrorists hijacked the Jaffar Express train in the Bolan district of Balochistan on Tuesday. Specifics regarding the attack and casualties have so far not been shared by the authorities.
The train, which left from Quetta at 9 am for Peshawar, had approximately 400 passengers on board when it was attacked near Tunnel No. 8 between Pehro Kunri and Gadalar.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind stated that reports have emerged of heavy gunfire targeting the Jaffar Express, which was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, between Pehro Kunri and Gadalar.
Meanwhile, Controller Railways Muhammad Kashif confirmed that the train, consisting of nine coaches, is carrying approximately 500 passengers including women and children.
“The train was halted by armed individuals inside Tunnel No. 8. Efforts are underway to establish contact with the passengers and staff,” he added.
District Police Officer of Kachhi Bolan, Rana Muhammad Dilawar, told Dawn.com that the train is stranded just before a tunnel surrounded by mountains, while security measures have been heightened on the N-65 Highway.
According to the government’s statement, an emergency has been declared at Sibi Hospital, while ambulances and security forces are en route to the incident site. However, spokesperson Shahid Rind noted that officials are encountering difficulties in reaching the area due to the rugged terrain.
“The railway department has dispatched additional trains to assist with the rescue efforts,” the statement added.
“The scale of the incident and the potential involvement of terrorist elements are being assessed. The Balochistan government has directed that emergency measures be implemented and all relevant institutions remain on high alert.”
Authorities have also urged the public to stay calm and refrain from spreading or believing unverified information.
This is a developing story and is being updated as the situation evolves.
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