Security tightened at railway stations nationwide following Quetta blast

Pakistan Railways has heightened security across all stations and installations nationwide following a blast at Quetta Railway Station, Inspector General of Railway Police Rao Sardar Ali Khan told Express News.

“We have issued a red alert for security at all railway stations, including those in Karachi,” said Rao Sardar. He added that additional railway police personnel have been deployed, and bomb disposal squads (BDS) are now stationed at major stations to screen passengers before trains depart.

All passengers and their belongings will undergo thorough checks at station entrances, with more walk-through gates being installed. Rao Sardar noted that police have been directed to monitor and take action against any unauthorised individuals loitering around the stations.

To further enhance security, more officers have been posted at entry and exit points, with inspections for all incoming vehicles. Female officers are now also stationed at key locations to ensure passenger safety.

“We are taking all steps necessary to make security foolproof across railway stations, trains, and facilities,” he said, urging passengers to cooperate with railway police and report any suspicious items or individuals.

Rao Sardar added that railway police will be provided with additional resources to strengthen security measures.

Earlier today, suicide bombing at the Quetta Railway Station has resulted in the deaths of at least 25 people and injured more than 50.

According to police, the attack took place on the platform as passengers gathered for the departure of the Jafar Express, scheduled to leave for Peshawar at 9:00am.

Law enforcement and rescue teams swiftly arrived at the scene following the explosion.

The blast occurred as the platform was crowded with passengers, causing widespread panic.

Emergency services were immediately dispatched, and the wounded were rushed to the Civil Hospital in Quetta, where an emergency was declared.

Dr. Abdul Sattar, Medical Superintendent at Civil Hospital, confirmed that the casualties included both men and women, with several in critical condition.

"Among the injured, 46 have been brought to Civil Hospital, where they are receiving immediate medical attention," a hospital spokesperson stated.

The explosion, which appeared to be a suicide attack, also injured two railway police officers, Head Constables Ghulam Rasool Jamali and Bhoral Khan, according to SSP Operations Muhammad Baloch.