Quetta, Pakistan: A deadly explosion shook the heart of Quetta city on Tuesday, leaving at least six people dead and nearly 20 others injured, according to local authorities and media reports.
The blast occurred near Zarghoon Road, a high-security zone in the capital of Pakistan’s troubled Balochistan province. The explosion sent shockwaves through the city, triggering chaos and panic among residents and commuters in the area.
Emergency response teams rushed to the scene, while law enforcement quickly cordoned off the site to begin investigation and secure the vicinity. Initial reports suggest a powerful explosive device was used, but officials have not yet confirmed the nature of the blast.
Police officials confirmed the fatalities and said that 19 others sustained injuries. Victims were immediately transported to Civil Hospital Quetta, where emergency protocols were activated. Some of the injured are said to be in critical condition.
Following the attack, the Balochistan Health Department declared a city-wide emergency. Health Secretary Mujeebur Rehman directed all medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, to report for duty without delay.
“All consultants and emergency staff have been instructed to stay at the hospitals to deal with any situation,” Rehman said in a statement.
Dr. Waseem Baig, the provincial health department’s media coordinator, confirmed that 19 wounded individuals were admitted to the Civil Hospital’s Emergency and Trauma Centre. Additional medical resources have been mobilized to cope with the influx of casualties.
As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the explosion. Balochistan has long been plagued by insurgency, sectarian violence, and militant attacks, often targeting security forces, civilians, and state infrastructure.
Investigations are underway, and authorities have promised to bring those responsible to justice. Security has been further tightened across the city in response to the incident.