Syed Ali Shah, Nashad Baloch, Manan Mandokhail, News Desk:
Quetta, March 12 – A Peshawar-bound passenger train carrying nearly 500 people came under intense gunfire near Bolan, prompting a swift response from security forces. The Jaffar Express was attacked between Pehro Kunri and Gadalar, though officials have yet to confirm casualties.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind stated, “There are reports of intense firing on Jaffar Express as it traveled from Quetta to Peshawar.”
80 Hostages Freed
• Security forces have rescued 80 hostages from terrorists, according to security sources.
• The rescued individuals include 43 men, 26 women, and 11 children, security sources confirmed.
• Efforts are underway to ensure the safe release of the remaining passengers.
• Security forces have tightened the siege around the terrorists.
• The operation will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated, security sources stated.
Railway Controller Muhammad Kashif confirmed that the train, consisting of nine coaches, was stopped by armed assailants inside Tunnel No. 8. “We are making efforts to contact the passengers and staff,” he added.
DPO Kachhi Says
District Police Officer (DPO) Kachhi Bolan Rana Muhammad Dilawar reported that the train was stranded near a tunnel in a mountainous area, while security has been reinforced along the N-65 Highway. According to Reuters, security officials said an explosion was heard near the tunnel, followed by an exchange of fire between security forces and militants.
An emergency has been declared at Sibi Hospital, and ambulances, along with additional security personnel, have been dispatched. However, rescue efforts are being hindered by the rugged terrain.
The railway department has sent additional trains to assist in the operation. Authorities are investigating the scale of the attack and the possibility of terrorist involvement. The Balochistan government has instructed all relevant agencies to remain on high alert.
Mashkaf Tunnel Attack: Security Forces Face Challenges in Reaching Site
The Mashkaf Tunnel, situated approximately 157 kilometers from Quetta and about 21 kilometers from Sibi, lies in an isolated and rugged terrain of the Bolan region. While the Quetta-Jacobabad N-65 highway and the railway line run parallel for most of the route, they diverge near Mashkaf. From there, the railway line follows a more direct course, cutting through the mountains along the Bolan River before merging back near Mach.
According to officials, the nearest railway station to the tunnel is Pehro Kunri, while Paneer station is the next stop towards Quetta, just before the Paneer Tunnel. Due to the remote and mountainous location, authorities are facing significant challenges in reaching the site.
Spokesman Govt Of Balochistan
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that an emergency has been declared at Sibi Hospital, with ambulances and security forces dispatched to the scene. However, rough terrain is making access difficult.
“The railway department has deployed additional trains for rescue operations,” an official statement said. Authorities are currently assessing the situation, including the possibility of terrorist involvement. The provincial government has instructed all relevant departments to stay on high alert and take immediate action.
Rind urged the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information. Further updates will be shared as more details emerge.
Further updates are awaited as the situation develops.
