Deadly Attack on Saryab Road
A devastating suicide attack shook Quetta on Tuesday night, leaving the city in grief and shock.
The bombing occurred near Shahwani Stadium on Saryab Road. At least 15 people were killed, and 38 others sustained injuries.
Authorities confirmed the attacker was under 30 years old. He carried nearly eight kilograms of explosives, which were detonated shortly after a political gathering ended.
Press Briefing by Officials
Senior provincial officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), the DIG crime, and the SSP operations, briefed the media on Wednesday.
They stated the explosion took place around 9 pm, almost six hours after the political meeting had ended.
According to Additional Chief Secretary Hamza Shafqat, the bomber’s body has been recovered. He confirmed that the attack was carried out using a large quantity of explosives.
Victim Compensation Announced
The provincial government announced financial relief for the families affected by the blast.
Each family of a deceased victim will receive Rs1.5 million. Injured individuals will be provided with Rs5 million in assistance.
Shafqat said that nearly 120 police personnel had been deployed at the time of the gathering. Despite these measures, the attacker managed to strike later in the night.
Security Concerns Before 12th Rabiul Awwal
Authorities have raised alarms about possible terror threats on the 12th of Rabiul Awwal, which will fall on Saturday.
Officials warned that terrorists may try to target processions and gatherings.
Shafqat stressed that the political party hosting the earlier gathering had already been informed about security risks.
As part of precautionary measures, all processions and gatherings across Balochistan will be banned after Maghrib prayers.
Section 144 remains enforced across the province. This includes restrictions on assemblies and large-scale public activities.
Clarification on Location and Timing
Officials clarified confusion about the incident’s timing and location.
The political meeting had been scheduled for 3 pm, but the blast happened around 9 pm.
Furthermore, the attack site was located almost 500 kilometers away from the actual meeting venue.
Counter-Terrorism Department Files Case
The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has registered a case against unidentified suspects.
Charges include murder, attempted murder, and terrorism.
The remains of the attacker have been taken into custody and will undergo forensic testing to confirm identity and possible affiliations.
Flood Risks in Other Districts
While the province deals with heightened security concerns, it is also preparing for flood threats.
Authorities warned of potential flooding in Sibi and Naseerabad districts. Heavy machinery has been placed on standby to handle emergencies.
The Home Department further imposed Section 144 in both Sibi and Naseerabad divisions due to the ongoing monsoon season.
Restrictions on Water Management Practices
A notification issued by the Home Department outlined several restrictions.
Cutting canals, drainage channels, or protective embankments is prohibited. Excavation and construction on canal banks using heavy machinery are banned without prior approval.
Officials stated that in the past, influential individuals diverted floodwaters toward weaker communities’ lands. To stop such incidents, strict measures will now be applied.
Additionally, setting up temporary shops, encroachments, or fences on embankments has been outlawed.
Swimming or boating in rivers, canals, and water passages has also been banned to reduce risks.
Emergency Warnings Issued
Authorities cautioned that flood torrents may affect Usta Muhammad, Sohbatpur, and Jafarabad districts.
Emergency measures are already being implemented to safeguard local populations.
Violators of the new regulations will face strict penalties under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code and the Balochistan Canal and Drainage Ordinance of 1980.
Police, Levies, and Irrigation Department teams have been ordered to enforce these measures without delay.
Combined Threats Facing Balochistan
Balochistan is currently facing a dual crisis: rising security threats and potential flooding.
On one hand, officials are bracing for possible terrorist attacks linked to religious processions. On the other, they are preparing for monsoon-related disasters in vulnerable districts.
Residents are urged to remain cautious and follow official guidelines. Authorities continue to monitor both security and weather developments closely.
