The driver of Jafar Express Amjad Yasin  - who miraculously survived the terrorist attack in Balochistan’s Bolan district-  has narrated the harrowing ordeal of the attack that left at least 21 passengers and four security personnel dead.

Amjad Yasin, a resident of 17 Chak in Chunian, was operating the Peshawar-bound train when it was ambushed by militants on Tuesday, March 11. Speaking to reporters, he recalled the terrifying moments when an explosion occurred beneath the engine, followed by heavy gunfire and rocket attacks.

“As we reached Bolan, a massive explosion erupted under the train engine, causing the fuel tank to explode. I immediately applied the emergency brake, bringing the train to a sudden halt. The impact caused the last four bogies to derail,” he said.

Speaking to Smaaa TV, Mr Yasin said as soon as the train stopped, armed militants descended from the nearby mountains and opened fire on the train engine.

“They fired rocket launchers directly at the engine. A bullet shattered the window and struck me in the back,” he added.

Despite the chaos, he credited the Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) commandos for their swift response, saying their intervention was crucial in saving lives.

“We were desperate to survive, and the Pakistan Army’s SSG commandos launched an immediate counter-operation, rescuing us just in time. I am grateful to the Pakistan Army for their bravery,” Yasin said.

Security operation concludes

The attack on Jafar Express resulted in the deaths of 21 passengers, including women and children, while four security personnel were also martyred. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) later claimed responsibility for the assault.

Following a prolonged security operation, Pakistan’s armed forces neutralized 33 terrorists, effectively bringing the situation under control.

Families of the survivors, including Yasin’s relatives, expressed their gratitude to the security forces. Earlier, rumors had circulated that Yasin had been killed in the attack, but his family later established contact with him and confirmed his survival.

Government response

Authorities have condemned the attack, vowing to intensify counterterrorism operations in Balochistan. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism from the region.

“The attack on innocent passengers is a tragic reminder of the challenges we face. Our security forces have once again demonstrated their resolve in fighting terrorism,” he said.

The attack on Jafar Express marks one of the deadliest incidents targeting Pakistan’s railway network in recent years, raising concerns over the safety of passengers traveling through conflict-prone areas.