Pakistan rocked by powerful explosion and gunfire, multiple casualties reported

Quetta (The Uttam Hindu): Pakistan's restive Balochistan province was rocked by a major terrorist attack on Tuesday. At least six people were killed and 19 others injured in a massive bomb blast and subsequent heavy gunfire near the Frontier Corps (FC) headquarters in the capital Quetta. The blast was so powerful that its sound was heard far and wide and shattered the glass of nearby buildings, creating panic and chaos in the area.

According to officials and eyewitnesses, the attack occurred near the Frontier Corps headquarters on Zarghoon Road in Quetta. A loud explosion sent a plume of smoke billowing into the sky. Gunfire erupted in the area soon after, further panicking residents. Given the severity of the attack, security forces have cordoned off the entire area.

Following the incident, the Balochistan Health Department has declared a state of emergency in all hospitals in Quetta. Health Secretary Mujeebur Rehman stated that all doctors, consultants, nurses, and paramedical staff have been ordered to cancel their leave and report for duty immediately. Dr. Waseem Baig, media coordinator for the provincial health department, confirmed that 19 injured people have been admitted to the trauma center of the civil hospital, where they are receiving treatment.