Unidentified terrorists have blown up a historic bridge over the Kurram River in Mir Ali, North Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, authorities said on Wednesday.

According to sources, the explosion was carried out by terrorists using explosives planted on the bridge, which resulted in the complete collapse of a large part of the bridge and the suspension of all types of traffic.

The blast has cut off the road link to surrounding areas, including Miranshah and Miran Ali, leaving thousands of residents stranded.

The incident also brought commercial activities in the area to a halt, besides disrupting social and daily routines.

Authorities have launched an investigation, while security forces have stepped up their presence in the area to track down and bring those responsible to justice.

Officials said rescue and relief operations are underway to assist residents and reduce the hardships caused by the bridge’s collapse.