24 killed in blast near railway line in Pakistan

At least 24 people have been killed and several others injured after a powerful explosion near a railway line in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province, officials and media reports said.

The blast took place on Sunday morning (May 24) in Quetta when a passenger train reportedly passing through the Chaman Gate area was struck during a suspected explosive attack.

According to AFP, an explosive-laden vehicle hit a train carriage as it crossed a signal point, triggering a massive explosion that caused heavy casualties, including reported military personnel among the victims.

However, Geo News reported a different account, stating that at least 20 people were injured after an explosion occurred near the railway track in the same area.

Police said the blast partially damaged the train, while nearby infrastructure was also affected. At least 10 parked vehicles were damaged, and windows of surrounding buildings were shattered due to the impact. Emergency services were immediately deployed, and hospitals in Quetta were placed on high alert.

Railway authorities confirmed that the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express was stopped at Quetta railway station as a precaution following the incident.

Pakistan’s Interior Ministry spokesperson Babur Yousufzai said all relevant agencies had been placed on high alert and urged the public to avoid the blast site to ensure smooth rescue and security operations.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact nature and cause of the explosion.