A member of the crime scene unit surveys after a blast in Quetta on April 10, 2023.— Reuters

Sariab Road Explosion in Quetta Devastates Community: At Least 13 Dead, Dozens Injured

Suicide Blast in Quetta’s Sariab Road Rally Kills at Least 13, Injures Nearly 30

A deadly explosion rocked a BNP-M rally near Quetta’s Shahwani Stadium on Sariab Road. At least 13 dead and 29 wounded. Authorities suspect suicide bombing and have launched an investigation amid widespread condemnation.

A powerful and deadly explosion ripped through Quetta’s Sariab Road on Tuesday evening, near Shahwani Stadium—shattering a community gathering and leaving at least 13 people dead and 29 wounded. Casualty numbers may rise as several victims remain in critical condition. Authorities suspect a suicide bombing, and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has launched an urgent investigation.

A Quiet Rally Turned Tragic

The blast occurred shortly after a political rally hosted by the Balochistan National Party–Mengal (BNP-M) ended. It was the fourth death anniversary of Sardar Ataullah Mengal, the party’s founder. His son, Akhtar Mengal, was in attendance but thankfully unharmed. Party officials say the explosion targeted his convoy but erupted in the parking area, likely limiting further casualties.

Escalating Toll and Emergency Response

Initial chaos saw casualties being ferried to Civil Hospital Quetta under emergency protocols. Health officials later confirmed that 13 bodies were received with dozens more rushed into surgery. Five of the injured remained in critical condition, leaving many in a state of limbo amid grief and fear. 

The evolving death toll has sparked urgency. Other outlets report up to 14 or even 15 fatalities and 35 to 38 injured, as the severity of the blast came into clearer view.

Government Condemnation and Probe Launched

Balochistan’s Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti immediately denounced the attack as “a cowardly act against innocent lives.” He vowed resolute action: “We will crush their nefarious designs,” promising swift justice and recovery support for the injured. A high-level inquiry committee has been established, with security agencies ordered to expedite arrests. Bugti also directed hospitals to remain on full alert, and emphasized that preserving public safety remains the government's top duty. 

Patterns of Violence Amidst Growing Instability

This act of terror fits a troubling pattern: Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have seen recurrent militant violence, including school bus attacks, railway bombings, and workplace ambushes. Recent data confirms dozens of attacks and hundreds of lives lost—civilians and security personnel alike. The Sariab Road blast is a grim reminder of the fragile peace in Pakistan’s southwestern frontier.

A Community Shaken—But Defiant

Despite the shock, locals are standing firm. BNP-M leaders have buried their fallen workers and vowed to continue their political mission, calling their sacrifice an honor. Citizens have rallied to help with first aid, transportation, and emotional support. Quetta is on edge, but resilient. Schools, businesses, and markets remain open, as day-to-day routines become acts of courage.