An improvised explosive device (IED) blast on Sunday targeted the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, injuring five passengers and derailing five coaches, Pakistan Railways confirmed. The attack took place near Spezand Railway Station in Mastung district, southwest of Quetta.
According to officials, the explosion occurred on the track as the train was en route to Peshawar, forcing five coaches off the rails. All five injured passengers sustained minor injuries and were treated promptly. Railway staff, rescue teams, and security forces rushed to the site, ensuring that the remaining passengers were safely evacuated.
The Jaffar Express has a history of being targeted by militants, most notably the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). In November 2024, a similar attack killed 25 people and injured 50 others. Earlier this year, in March, the train was hijacked in another deadly incident that left 23 soldiers dead.
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi condemned the attack in strong terms, labelling it a “cowardly act of terrorism” that would not weaken the nation’s resolve. “Terrorists’ cowardly acts cannot weaken our resolve,” Abbasi said, vowing to continue operations once security conditions permit.
A relief train was dispatched to transport approximately 350 passengers back to Quetta. Pakistan Railways confirmed that all stranded bogies will be returned to the city and that affected passengers will receive full ticket refunds.
In a separate statement, railway spokesperson Kashif confirmed that both the Jaffar Express and Bolan Mail services will remain suspended until August 14. The Bolan Mail is expected to resume operations on August 16, departing from Karachi on schedule and arriving in Quetta the following day.