Islamabad. Quetta blast news: An explosion has come to light in North-Western Balochistan of Pakistan. 24 people were killed and 40 others were injured in the bomb blast at Quetta railway station. This incident is the latest incident of unrest in Balochistan.
Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for the attack. BLA is a Baloch separatist group which has been declared a terrorist organization. The BLA alleges that the federal government is exploiting the resources of Balochistan, while no development is taking place in the province.
Explosion in booking office
According to Reuters, the death toll has now increased to 24. According to information, the explosion took place in the booking office of the railway station just before the train reached the platform. As usual, a large number of casualties are expected due to overcrowding at the station.
Police and rescue workers have reached the blast site. Emergency has been imposed in Quetta Civil Hospital and additional doctors and support staff have been called.
Death toll may increase
According to railway officials, Jafar Express was scheduled to leave for Peshawar at 9 am. Officials said the train had not yet reached the platform when the explosion occurred. Officials said that the death toll in the blast may increase as the condition of many injured is critical.
suicide bombing
Speaking to the media, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Quetta Muhammad Baloch said that the blast appeared to be a suicide blast. However, he said further investigation is underway. Giving detailed information about the death toll, SSP Operations Baloch said that the death toll in the blast was 24 and 40 others were injured.
Platform roof also damaged
The police officer said the blast took place inside the railway station when the Peshawar-bound express was about to leave for its destination. The explosion, which also damaged the roof of the platform, was heard far and wide in various areas of the city.
Bomb disposal team inspected the spot, SSP Operations said they will soon provide information about the nature of the blast.