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Pakistan Halts Jaffar Express After Security Alerts Linked to TTP, BLA

Officials cite intelligence on plots targeting vulnerable stretches near Bolan, including the QuettaZhob section.

Overview

  • Pakistan Railways paused the QuettaPeshawar service starting November 9 as a precaution following advice from security and intelligence agencies.
  • Outlets differ on the duration, with railway officials quoted as planning a four-day halt through November 12 while another report cites a three-day pause to November 11.
  • Intelligence reporting points to threats from TTP sleeper cells and BLA fighters, with concerns about joint sabotage and cross-border coordination.
  • The route has faced repeated attacks this year, including a March hijacking that killed 25 people and subsequent bombings and derailments in August through October.
  • Authorities say the suspension aims to protect passengers, staff and rail assets on a vital interprovincial link, and the November 8 scheduled departure operated as planned.