A railway track near the national highway in the Notal area of Nasirabad in Balochistan was targeted by unknown individuals with explosive material.
The explosion occurred when no train was passing through the area. Although the explosion partially damaged part of the track, no loss of life or property was reported, police sources said.
The sound of the blast was reportedly heard from a long distance. A heavy contingent of police and security forces immediately reached the site after the incident, sealing off the area and launching a search operation to trace the suspects.
Train movement was temporarily suspended due to a portion of the track being damaged. However, railway authorities immediately began repair work to mend the affected section.
Read: Train services suspended across Balochistan
Authorities stated that investigations into the incident are ongoing and the perpetrators will be brought to justice. Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has also taken notice of the incident and sought a report.
The incident highlights the seriousness of the security situation in Balochistan, where railway tracks are repeatedly targeted. The public has been urged to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station immediately.
The spike in targeting of railway infrastructure in the province, according to experts, is an attempt by miscreant elements to create instability in the province. Security agencies have issued instructions for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to deter any further untoward incidents.
In November, security forces defused a bomb containing over 3.5 kilograms of explosive material near a railway track in Dera Murad Jamali area of Nasirabad, averting what police described as “a major disaster”.
Read More: Jaffar Express narrowly escapes big disaster
Pakistan Railways halted operations across the province in December due to heightened security concerns. Officials said the decision was taken purely as a precaution following security alerts, acknowledging that while the disruption is inconvenient, the safety of passengers and railway staff must come first.
Key routes were affected due to the suspension. These include the Jaffar Express operating between Quetta and Peshawar and the Bolan Mail bound for Karachi.
Earlier in the year, in March, the Jaffar Express, carrying 440 passengers, was hijacked near the Sibi area, resulting in the deaths of 21 passengers and four security personnel.
