QUETA:
Repair work on two railway bridges near Nushki, demolished by unidentified armed terrorists on January 31, is yet to begin due to pending security clearance, officials said on Thursday.
The incident was part of a wider wave of coordinated attacks claimed by the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) across Balochistan on that date, targeting security facilities, police stations and infrastructure including railway tracks and bridges. The attacks caused significant casualties on both sides and prompted increased security measures across the province.
According to railway authorities, railway operations on the Quetta-Taftan section remain completely suspended as a result of the damage. This has severed Pakistan’s rail link with Iran, severely disrupting passenger travel and cross-border trade activities. The suspension affects cargo and passenger services that depend on this vital route.
Railway sources confirmed that technical teams are fully prepared and on standby to begin restoration efforts. However, the current security situation in the area has prevented the start of works. Officials emphasized that formal repair activities will only be carried out once the necessary authorization is granted by security agencies.
It is pertinent to mention that the January 31 attacks involved multiple targets in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan, including railway facilities. In response, security has been further tightened across the region.
The authorities have assured that restoring normality remains a top priority. Once conditions stabilize, rehabilitation of railway tracks and bridges will be urgently undertaken to resume rail services as soon as possible. Passengers and traders continue to face considerable difficulties amid the prolonged disruption.
