Quetta, Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi strongly condemned the blast that took place in Quetta, calling it a “cowardly act of terrorism” and stating that such attacks cannot weaken the nation’s resolve.

In a statement issued after the incident, the railways minister alleged that anti-Pakistan elements based in India and Afghanistan were supporting terrorism and attempting to spread unrest in the country through “malicious activities.”

Hanif Abbasi said terrorist networks operating from India and Afghanistan would never be allowed to succeed in their “nefarious designs” against Pakistan. He added that terrorists are enemies of humanity and the country and would be brought to a “disgraceful end.”

According to railway officials, the shuttle train coming from Quetta Cantonment was hit by the blast near Chaman Phatak. The explosion caused the locomotive and three coaches to derail, while two coaches overturned.

Security forces immediately cordoned off the area and launched rescue operations. Rescue trucks and a relief train were also dispatched to the site to assist in emergency operations.

The railways minister stated that Pakistan Railways’ operational activities would continue without interruption despite the incident. He also directed the administration to submit an immediate report regarding the blast.