A powerful explosion near a railway track in the southwestern Pakistani city of Quetta has injured more than two dozen people after it struck a passenger train travelling through the area.

According to officials and local reports, the blast occurred as the train was passing through the region, causing two of its carriages to derail and catch fire.

Thick black smoke was seen rising from the scene, with footage shared on social media showing extensive damage to both the train and surrounding infrastructure.Nearby buildings were also reported to have been damaged, and vehicles parked along the road were smashed by the force of the explosion.Local hospital authorities confirmed that more than 30 injured people were admitted for treatment, with several in critical condition.Authorities stated that an investigation into the incident was ongoing, and no group had claimed responsibility at the time of reporting.Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, is located in a region that has experienced long-standing insurgency-related violence.

Separatist groups, including the banned Baloch Liberation Army, have historically targeted state infrastructure and security forces, alleging marginalisation and resource exploitation by the central government.The province, which borders Afghanistan and Iran, is rich in natural resources but has remained one of the least developed areas in Pakistan.

The attack adds to ongoing security concerns in the region, where sporadic violence continues despite military and security operations aimed at stabilising the area.Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and search for those responsible.