In the aftermath of the Jaffar Express tragedy, normalcy in Balochistan remains out of reach as train services remain suspended for the past 14 days.

A meeting has been scheduled for tomorrow to address the ongoing crisis and to discuss the resumption of train operations. The closure of transport routes has triggered a food supply crisis in the province, leading to significant artificial inflation.

The cost of alternative transport routes to Karachi has risen sharply, while one-way airfare has ballooned to between Rs70,000 and Rs80,000. Internet services in Quetta have been down for five days, effectively isolating the city from the rest of the country.

The attack on the Jaffar Express, which was en route from Quetta to Peshawar on March 11, has led to a continued suspension of train services, significantly impacting bus travelers as well. What used to be a few hours’ journey has now extended to several days, causing great inconvenience to passengers.

A spokesperson for Pakistan Railways announced that an important meeting on the restoration of train services in Balochistan is set for Wednesday. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi has also noted the absence of scanners at any railway station, further complicating the situation.

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The closure of routes has led to escalated transportation costs for vehicles traveling to Karachi, with fares for the Bolan route increasing from Rs4,000 to between Rs7,000 and Rs8,000. For many, air travel has now become financially prohibitive.

The blockade of transport routes has intensified a food supply crisis, as prices for fruits, vegetables, and other essential goods continue to rise. With road access being difficult or completely blocked and rail services still suspended, residents face a lack of safe and affordable travel options, leaving many in a challenging situation.