The Jaffar Express narrowly escaped disaster on November 16, 2025. It is reported that the militants had installed an explosive device on the railway track in Balochistan. The most targeted region of Balochistan, Nasirabad district, has been affected by the train’s track blast. The train services in the region have been suspended due to the blast site moments for security reasons. The explosion has damaged the portion of the track that resulting in the suspension of the railway track between the Quetta region and the rest of Pakistan.
After the blast immediately the security forces reassembled there and cordoned off the area, and within no time the search operation was initiated. Many passengers have been badly affected by the flipping over of the train. The officials confirmed that the railway service will be continued after completing the repairs, a sustained damage has been confirmed. The Jaffar Express continued its journey after reaching Jacobabad in Sindh.
This attack marks at least the ninth incident targeting the Jaffar Express since March 2025, highlighting the persistent threat to one of Pakistan’s most vital rail links connecting Balochistan with northern regions.
The Jaffar Express has faced relentless targeting throughout 2025, primarily in Balochistan and adjacent districts:
Why the Jaffar Express Keeps Getting Targeted
The Quetta-Peshawar route runs through some of Balochistan’s most restive areas, making it a high-value symbolic and strategic target for separatist groups. Militants view railway infrastructure as a representation of federal control and a vital economic artery, especially for CPEC-related freight movement. The BLA and splinter factions have intensified attacks on trains, bridges, and tracks in 2025 to pressure Islamabad, disrupt transport, and gain international attention for their cause.
Security Measures and Railway Response
Pakistan Railways suspended Jaffar Express operations for four days prior to November 16 due to credible threats, resuming only after clearance from security agencies. Following almost every incident, authorities have increased patrolling, installed CCTV at key points, and deployed Railway Police and FC personnel. Yet the attacks continue, exposing gaps in track surveillance across hundreds of kilometres of remote terrain.
Also Read: Mobile Internet Suspended in Balochistan Till November 16 Amid Rising Security Threats
Experts recommend drone surveillance, track-side sensors, and community intelligence networks, but implementation remains slow due to resource constraints.
Impact on Passengers and Rail Travel
Thousands of passengers, many from low-income families who rely on the affordable Quetta–Peshawar service, have faced cancellations, delays, and fear throughout 2025.
Alternative bus routes are longer, costlier, and equally vulnerable in parts of Balochistan.
FAQs About Jaffar Express Safety
Is the Jaffar Express currently running?
Yes. Service resumed on November 16 morning and continued after the latest incident once the track.
How many times has Jaffar Express been attacked in 2025?
At least nine documented incidents.
Who is behind these attacks?
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed the March hijacking. Some other groups are also suspected for the incidents, but not confirmed yet.
Is it safe to travel on this route?
Currently, the route is inspected, always prefer checking the official announcements.
What is the government doing?
As of now government is aware of the public, enhancing deployments, performing operations, and hardening the underway.
Final Words
The Jaffar Express has become the most targeted passenger train in Pakistan’s history within a single year — a stark indicator of the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan. Until the underlying political and economic grievances are addressed alongside kinetic operations, such attacks are likely to continue. The authorities should take the proper steps to ensure the security of the passenger and railway track.
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Disclaimer: The post has been written by the available information; there is no licensed allegation over any regime or authority.
