Terror attacks on Quetta-Karachi highway disrupt travel, trade

QUETTA:

A surge in terrorist attacks on the Quetta-Karachi National Highway has sparked widespread fear among commuters and residents, while goods transporters have announced restrictions on the movement of trucks and containers along the route due to growing security concerns.

The development has added to the difficulties faced by passengers, traders, and businesses dependent on the highway.

Over the past several days, a series of deadly attacks has raised serious concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation. In the latest incident, unidentified gunmen opened fire on a passenger coach travelling from Quetta to Karachi near Khad Kocha, killing four passengers and injuring four others. In a separate attack near Surab, a passenger coach travelling from Turbat to Quetta came under fire, leaving a woman seriously injured.

Earlier, two women travelling with their family from Zhob to Karachi for medical treatment were killed when their vehicle was attacked near Kalat. On Thursday, terrorists targeted the vehicle of District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar near Mastung, killing him and his security guard, while Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari sustained serious injuries.