(24 News) 26 people were killed and more than 50 were injured in an alleged suicide blast at the railway station in Quetta, Baluchistan. In the CCTV footage of the blast, it can be seen that the plate at the time of the blast. Dozens of people on the farm are under sheds waiting for the train.
Nasir Khan, the eyewitness of the explosion, said that he went to say goodbye to his friend at the railway station. Nasir Khan said that we had just entered the railway station when suddenly there was a loud explosion. The explosion was very intense and there were screams everywhere at once. He further said that when the clouds of smoke cleared, I was the first to see my friend and friend. Fortunately we were both safe but there was a ticket window some distance away from us, I saw several people lying on the ground.
According to Nasir Khan, some other people were also lying on the ground around the railway window, some people were screaming and some were asking for help. Most of those who were not injured were conscious. Some were also trying to help the people while the ambulance and police reached the spot. Another eyewitness Muhammad Aslam said that since the train was not yet on the platform, I stood a little on the side. . I thought I should drink tea, so I looked at the time and it was twelve minutes past eight. When I went towards the tea shop, there was a loud explosion. Muhammad Aslam said that for several seconds he did not know and did not understand what happened and how it happened. There was just shouting everywhere. The scene there was indescribable, many people were in very bad condition.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Terrorism Expert on Quetta Railway Station Blast
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today we’re discussing a tragic event that occurred at the railway station in Quetta, where an alleged suicide blast resulted in the death of 26 people and left more than 50 injured. Joining us is Dr. Amina Rahman, a leading expert in terrorism and security studies. Thank you for being here, Dr. Rahman.
Dr. Amina Rahman: Thank you for having me. It’s a devastating situation, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss the implications.
Editor: To start, can you give us a bit of context on the region? What makes Quetta a target for such attacks?
Dr. Rahman: Quetta has been a focal point for various militant groups, particularly because of its strategic position and proximity to both Afghanistan and Iran. It has a complex demographic mix, including a significant Hazara population, which has faced persecution. This volatile environment often attracts extremist elements, making it a prime target for such attacks.
Editor: This incident was described as an “alleged suicide blast.” What does this classification entail, and how does it impact the investigation?
Dr. Rahman: The term “alleged” indicates that the investigation is still ongoing, and officials are gathering evidence to confirm the nature of the attack. Identifying whether it was indeed a suicide bombing can be crucial in determining the perpetrators and their motives. The distinction often influences how security forces deploy resources afterward, focusing on potential retaliatory measures or preventive strategies for future attacks.
Editor: Such attacks often have a significant psychological impact on communities. What are some of the short-term and long-term effects of such violence on the local population?
Dr. Rahman: In the short term, there is often shock, fear, and an immediate loss of trust in public safety measures. The long-term effects can be even more profound, as communities may struggle with increased sectarian tensions, a sense of vulnerability, and economic instability, particularly if people feel unsafe to travel or conduct their businesses in areas affected by violence.
Editor: Following this tragedy, what measures do you think should be taken by the government to prevent such incidents in the future?
Dr. Rahman: A multifaceted approach is essential. First, there needs to be more robust intelligence-gathering to preemptively identify threats. This involves not just increased military presence but also community engagement to gather grassroots intelligence. Second, addressing the underlying grievances of marginalized communities is critical. Effective governance, economic development, and reconciliation initiatives can go a long way in mitigating conditions that foster extremism. strengthening law enforcement and ensuring that they can operate effectively while respecting human rights is crucial.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rahman, for shedding light on this tragic incident and the broader implications it carries. It’s vital to continue these conversations as we seek to understand and combat violence in all its forms.
Dr. Rahman: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a swift recovery for the injured and peace for the affected communities.
Editor: Absolutely. Let’s keep our audience updated as more information arrives. Thank you for tuning in to Time.news.