A powerful explosion ripped through a passenger train in Balochistan on Sunday, leaving more than 24 people dead and at least 50 injured, according to initial reports. The incident occurred near a railway track in Quetta, raising fresh concerns over security in the restive region.
Explosion hits train near Quetta
As per AFP reports, the train was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, carrying army personnel along with their families, when it came under attack. Officials said an explosives-laden vehicle rammed into one of the coaches at a signal point in Chaman Pattak.
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An official described the impact as a “big blast”, indicating the intensity of the explosion. The force of the collision caused severe damage to the train, with multiple casualties reported on the spot.
Deadly attack in Pakistan: 16 killed in an explosion targeting a passenger train. Several more wounded. Associated Press of Pakistan reports. Attacks on Pakistan's transport infrastructure continue. pic.twitter.com/UJOzPyhQN6
— General Quacker | الجنرال كواكر (@general_he42676) May 24, 2026
Casualties include army personnel
Among those killed were army servicemen, officials confirmed, though the exact number is yet to be specified. Emergency teams rushed to the site as injured passengers were shifted to nearby hospitals.
Visuals from the scene showed two bogies overturned and engulfed in flames, with thick black smoke rising into the sky. Eyewitnesses quoted by AP said nearby vehicles were also damaged due to the blast.
Rescue efforts underway, probe launched
Footage from the aftermath captured chaotic rescue attempts, with people climbing onto the wreckage to help those trapped inside. Buildings in the vicinity appeared partially destroyed.
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Balochistan government official Babar Yousafzai said authorities are still examining the cause of the explosion but did not share further details.
Region with a history of unrest
The province has witnessed repeated violence over the years. Groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) have been active in the region, demanding independence from Pakistan.
The latest attack comes a year after a train carrying around 400 passengers was hijacked in Balochistan. The BLA had claimed responsibility for that incident, in which all 33 attackers were killed and hundreds of passengers rescued.
In October 2025, another blast in Sindh Province derailed several coaches of the Jaffar Express, injuring multiple passengers, underlining the continued threat to rail networks in the region.
