The key details from the in-camera briefing on the Jaffer Express attack given to the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Railways have been revealed.
According to the briefing, the terrorists immediately released 86 local passengers. However, some hostages who attempted to escape were shot by the attackers. Out of the 380 passengers on board, 26 were martyred, and 50 sustained injuries. Among the victims were two railway officials.
During the counter-operation against the terrorists, five security personnel also lost their lives. Law enforcement agencies managed to eliminate 33 terrorists and rescue 190 hostages. Additionally, the committee was briefed on recommendations for enhancing the capabilities of railway police, including commando training and the provision of modern weapons and wireless communication equipment.
The attack on Jaffer Express took place on March 11, when the train departed from Quetta at 9 AM with 380 passengers, heading toward Peshawar. As it approached Panir station, an explosion on the railway track forced the train to stop. At this point, armed militants launched an attack and took the passengers hostage. Shortly after, 86 local men, women, and children were released, followed by the release of another 78 hostages on March 12.
Some passengers attempted to escape but were fired upon by the attackers. However, a few managed to reach safety at Panir station. In response, law enforcement agencies launched an operation on the evening of March 12, successfully rescuing 190 passengers while eliminating 33 terrorists. Despite the efforts of security forces, five personnel lost their lives in the operation.
Following the security clearance, railway authorities managed to repair the affected track and train bogies within 12 hours. During the operation, Pakistan Railways provided full support to security forces and operated six rescue trains to assist in the evacuation.
The briefing also highlighted the need for strengthening railway security. It was suggested that railway police should undergo commando training and be equipped with modern weapons and communication devices to prevent such incidents in the future.
Jaffer Express resumes service from Peshawar to Quetta after 16-day suspension
After a 16-day suspension, the Jaffer Express has resumed operations from Peshawar to Quetta. Federal Minister for Railways, Ameer Maqam, officially inaugurated the restored service by cutting the ribbon at Peshawar Cantt Railway Station. Our correspondent, Abdul Rehman, reports from the station.
Jaffer Express departed from Peshawar Cantt Railway Station at its scheduled time of 7:30 AM, marking the revival of the crucial rail link between the two cities. A total of 280 passengers booked reservations for the journey, with 28 boarding from Peshawar.
The train will travel through Punjab and Sindh before entering Balochistan, covering all four provinces of Pakistan. It remains the only passenger train providing service across the entire country.
Jaffer Express is expected to complete its 34-hour journey and reach Quetta by 5 PM tomorrow (Friday).
