Security clampdown disrupts travel, education and business as counterterror operations continue
Army soldiers gather at the site following millitant attacks in Quetta on January 31. Photo: Reuters
QUETTA:
Security measures imposed following recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan have resulted in the suspension of train services and mobile phone internet across the province, continuing for the fifth consecutive day on Wednesday.
While these measures have been taken to ensure public safety and prevent potential threats, daily life has been severely affected.
According to railway officials, the Jaffar Express running from Quetta to Peshawar, the Bolan Mail to Karachi, and the Chaman Passenger train operating between Quetta and Chaman remain completely suspended.
Read: In rare unity, MPs close ranks against Balochistan terror
The suspension has affected thousands of passengers, who have been forced to seek alternative means of transportation. The railway administration has assured affected passengers of full refunds for their tickets.
Meanwhile, mobile phone data and internet services remained suspended across most districts of Balochistan. Officials stated that this measure was taken due to security concerns and to prevent possible communication between terrorist organizations.
The internet shutdown has prevented students from attending online classes, deprived businesspersons of online transactions, and created difficulties for journalists in field reporting and information transmission.
A high security alert remains in place in Quetta, with strict checking, patrolling, and search operations ongoing at the city’s entry and exit points.
Several terrorists have been killed in operations by security forces. Following the recent attacks, security forces have intensified efforts to improve the law and order situation across the provincial capital.
Read More: Terrorists unleash reign of terror, neutralised by forces
The public has demanded that the government restore suspended services as soon as possible to allow normalcy to return to daily life. Authorities stated that a decision regarding the restoration of internet and train services will be made after the security situation improves.
On Tuesday, state media reported that Pakistan’s security forces have killed a total of 197 terrorists belonging to the banned ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ militant group in continuing counterterrorism operations in Balochistan. 22 security personnel have been martyred in these operations.
The government has designated the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) terrorist group and other Baloch groups as “Fitna al-Hindustan”, alleging they are acting as proxies of India to destabilise Pakistan through hybrid warfare.
On Sunday, the provincial government also issued a notification announcing the imposition of Section 144 for one month, citing heightened security concerns, the recent attacks and the overall law-and-order situation.
