Quetta, Balochistan: A Quetta train blast killed at least 23 people and injured more than 70 on Sunday after an explosion struck a train near Chaman Phatak railway station.
Officials said the train was carrying military personnel and their families who were returning home for Eid. BBC Urdu, citing railway officials, reported that the engine and three coaches derailed, while two coaches overturned.
The Balochistan government blamed the Balochistan Liberation Army for the attack and said it was a suicide bombing. The separatist group also claimed responsibility for the blast.
AP reported that the bomber used an explosives-laden vehicle as the train passed the area. The blast also damaged nearby buildings and vehicles.
Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi confirmed that passengers were on the shuttle train when the blast hit the engine and three bogies, PTI reported.
Read: Quetta Train Blast Kills At Least 19 Near Chaman Phatak
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the attack. Authorities launched an investigation after rescue teams moved the injured to hospitals in Quetta.
