Quetta trains run out of fuel

Only one train left the Rawalpindi-bound Jaffar Express.

QUETTA: Train service from the capital of Balochistan to other parts of the country was disrupted on account of unavailability of diesel, officials of Pakistan Railways said on Thursday.

Only one train, the Rawalpindi-bound Jaffar Express, left Quetta station after local railways authorities arranged fuel on their own. Other passenger trains were, however, unable to leave the station which sparked protests by angry passengers.

“I do not know what is happening with this country …every day a new problem crops up affecting only the poor people,” a protester said.

Separately, the railways’ union also held a protest demonstration, criticising the Pakistan Railways authorities and the government for its failure in dealing with various issues. The Quetta Train Station was closed down after the departure of Jaffar Express to avoid more protests while potential travellers were refunded tickets.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 18^th, 2011.