Celebrities mourn terror on Quetta tracks

Stars express pain, anguish at loss of innocent lives in rail bombing

KARACHI:

Prominent Pakistani celebrities and cultural icons took to the social media on Sunday to express profound grief, anger, and solidarity following a devastating train bombing in Quetta that killed 14 people and injured 20 others.

As news of the tragedy spread, members of the entertainment industry joined the nation in mourning, utilising their platforms to react to the loss of innocent lives, with superstar Mahira Khan reacting emotionally to the recurring violence.

"How much more?" she asked as she watched the city bleed again. Designer Hassan Sheheryar Yasin spoke for many across the country, writing, "Today our hearts are heavy with the pain of so many innocent lives lost and families forever changed."

Actor Sarwat Gilani shared her sorrow by posting a story with broken hearts. Rapper Talha Anjum minced no words in condemnation, stating that he stands "with our soldiers" against the "terrorists" who took innocent lives, while offering prayers for the souls of the deceased.

Singer and actor Farhan Saeed echoed these sentiments, stating that his "heart goes out to all the victims and [their] families." Saeed firmly asserted that the attack was the work of Pakistan's enemy, which must be defeated "at any cost," adding his wish that Pakistani forces would "make examples" out of those responsible.

The wave of celebrity responses came immediately after the morning blast, which targeted a train travelling from Quetta Cantonment to the main station, claiming the lives of bystanders, railway passengers, three Frontier Constabulary members, and a family of four.

According to a statement from the provincial government, among the dead was a family of four, including two children. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a deafening blast followed by chaotic scenes as bystanders ran for cover amid the debris.