Internet, mobile services to remain suspended amid security concerns

QUETTA: Mobile and internet services will remain suspended in parts of Balochistan due to security concerns. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) spokesperson confirmed that this measure has been taken to maintain law and order in the region, as directed by relevant authorities.

The decision comes after a devastating blast occurred at the Quetta railway station on November 9, resulting in the loss of 32 lives and injuring 62 others, including women and children.

Commissioner Quetta Hamza Shafqaat stated that the blast took place at 8:25 am, coinciding with the departure of the Jaffar Express train.

The railway authorities reported that two trains, Chaman Passenger and Jaffar Express, were scheduled to depart from Quetta for Chaman and Peshawar, respectively. Passengers from both trains were present at the platform when the blast occurred.

In response to the attack, train services in Quetta were suspended for four days. However, according to the CEO of Pakistan Railways, Aamir Baloch, train services from Quetta to other parts of Pakistan have been restored after security clearance.

The Jaffar Express departed from Quetta on Friday morning, while the Bolan Mail will leave at its scheduled time.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack, which was carried out by a suicide bomber. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with leaders from around the world denouncing the attack and offering condolences to the victims’ families.