On 11 March, a news came of a Pakistan train hijack. The Jaffar Express was with some 400 passengers and nine bogies and was on its way from Quetta in Pakistan’s to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The BLA reported that around 20 Pakistani military personnel were killed in the attack and around 180 people were held hostage. Here are all the details about the incident, have a look at them.
Pakistan Train Hijack News: What Happened?
On the news of the Pakistan train hijack, armed militants reportedly stopped the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, one of the most volatile regions in the country. According to reports, the insurgents have taken hostages and engaged in a gun battle with security forces, causing injuries and/or deaths.
They were allegedly demanding the release of Baloch activists imprisoned apparently for militancy. Security forces acted promptly, but the incident showed that Pakistan’s railway infrastructure is still being threatened in areas where separatist groups are allowed to operate.
Jaffar Express Hijack: A Closer Look
The Jaffar Express hijack was a well-coordinated attack that involved explosives on the railway tracks, forcing the train to stop inside a tunnel. The hijackers reportedly had detailed knowledge of the Jaffar Express route, indicating premeditated planning.
Passengers on board experienced hours of terror as militants engaged in gunfire with security forces. The confrontation resulted in multiple casualties and significant disruption to train services.
Jaffar Express Route: Key Details
Reaches at Jaffar Express Route runs from Quetta to Peshawar, which travels about 1,632 kilometres. It connects major cities including Sukkur, Multan, Lahore, and Rawalpindi and serves as an important link for passengers traveling between Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In this respect, it is important to mention that it’s always been a target for insurgents in times past. This latest hijack incident makes one ponder about the safety of railways in conflict-prone areas. Recent hijacking reinforces concerns about railway safety in conflict-prone regions.
Baloch Liberation Army: The Group Behind the Attack
A separatist militant organization, the Baloch Liberation Army, conducts attacks mostly against Pakistani security forces and state infrastructure, all in the name of Balochistan liberation, which, as an excuse, alleges that it suffers mainly from economic exploitation and political marginalization.
BLA had also targeted Chinese investment projects, military convoys, and rail infrastructure. Pakistani train hijack is yet one more instance that got activated for urgent and merciless negotiations for the BLA.
FAQs
Which train was hijacked in Pakistan?
The Jaffar train was hijacked in Pakistan and the attack took place in Balochistan.
What is the route of Jaffar Express?
The Jaffar Express route covers Quetta to Peshawar, passing through key cities like Sukkur, Multan, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
Is train travel safe in Pakistan?
The train travel in Pakistan is generally considered safe, except for some regions.
Is Pakistan safe for Indian tourists?
Pakistan’s tourist attractions are highly diverse; however, security threats exist, particularly along border areas and in conflict-prone areas. Indian tourists are advised to check travel advisories, avoid high-risk areas, and write for any necessary permissions prior to their visit.
