Quetta, March 12, 2025: Train services from Quetta to other parts of the country have been suspended indefinitely following a terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express. Railway authorities have cited security concerns, stating that no trains will operate from Quetta until further notice.
The attack, which occurred yesterday, saw militants take 500 passengers hostage as the Jaffar Express traveled from Quetta to Peshawar. In response, security forces launched a clearance operation, killing 27 terrorists and successfully rescuing 155 passengers. However, the situation remains tense as the operation continues.
The train, which departed from Quetta at 9:30 AM, was ambushed by heavily armed assailants near the Gadalar and Piro Kanri areas. The train driver sustained critical injuries in the attack and later succumbed to his wounds.
According to security sources, suicide bombers are using women and children as human shields at three different locations, making the operation extremely complex. Security forces are proceeding with utmost caution to ensure the safe rescue of all remaining hostages.
The attack has drawn strong condemnation from the country’s leadership. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have denounced the brutal assault on innocent passengers and praised the swift and courageous response of security forces.
President Zardari condemned the attack as “inhuman and repugnant,” stating that such acts have no justification in any religion or society. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement from the PM’s Office Media Wing, commended the high morale of security forces, noting that despite the challenging terrain, they are bravely pushing back the terrorists and ensuring the safety of civilians.
As the clearance operation continues, authorities remain on high alert, and train services will remain suspended until the security situation improves.
