An explosion in Quetta killed at least 20 people and injured more than 50 after a device detonated as a train passed, overturning several carriages and starting fires. The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility, and investigators say the device was likely planted in a nearby car park. Hospitals in Quetta declared a state of emergency to treat the wounded, and footage shows extensive damage to vehicles and buildings. Officials say attacks in Balochistan have intensified recently and have increasingly targeted Chinese-linked projects under CPEC.
Deadly Bomb Blast in Quetta: 20+ Killed, Dozens Injured as Train Carriages Overturn
Security personnel and residents rescue injured blast victims from derailed carriages after an explosion targeted a train in Quetta, in Pakistan's Balochistan province, on May 24, 2026 [AFP]
An explosion ripped through Quetta, the capital of Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 50 when a passing train struck the blast site. Several carriages overturned and caught fire, and eyewitness footage shows charred cars and derailed carriages strewn near the tracks.
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for Sunday’s attack. Al Jazeera correspondent Kamal Hyder, reporting from the scene, said investigators believe the explosive device was likely planted in a nearby car park. Nearby homes and buildings adjacent to the railway line were reported as severely damaged.
Local media said public hospitals in Quetta declared a state of emergency, with doctors and medical staff ordered to remain on duty to handle the influx of casualties. Rescue teams were at the site, and footage shared online captured the scale of the destruction.
Context
Hyder noted that Pakistan has seen a series of attacks by separatist groups in recent months. He said the violence has intensified and has increasingly targeted Chinese nationals and projects linked to Beijing, reflecting opposition to infrastructure initiatives in Balochistan. Under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), road and rail links connect China’s Xinjiang region with Pakistan’s Gwadar port.
Note: Authorities are investigating the blast and casualty figures may change as rescue and forensic work continues.
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