The Bolan Mail train traveling from Karachi to Quetta was unexpectedly stopped at Jacobabad railway station on Sunday night due to security concerns. 

Pakistan Railways officials confirmed the halt, citing a ban on nighttime train operations in Balochistan. The train, carrying approximately 150 passengers, arrived in Jacobabad late at night. Authorities prevented its onward journey until security clearance was obtained.

Railways Chief Executive Officer Amir Ali Baloch was quoted told a newspaper that if the train had been allowed to go ahead, it would have reached Sibi after midnight.

Following the delay in receiving clearance, passengers were told till morning. However, those who wished to continue their journey were disembarked and transported to Quetta and other destinations via bus under security escort. 

While some passengers received partial refunds, others reported receiving no reimbursement, despite having paid for a journey to Quetta. This led to protests from disgruntled passengers who felt unfairly treated, given the additional cost of reaching their final destinations.

In response to the incident, Pakistan Railways announced a revision to the Bolan Mail’s schedule, moving its departure from Karachi City Station from 7 pm to 3 pm, effective Tuesday. Passengers are urged to adjust their travel plans accordingly. 

The halting of the Bolan Mail comes a month after the Jaffar Express was hijacked near Sibi with over 400 passengers on board. At least 26 passengers had died before security forces completed their operation, killing all 33 terrorists involved in the attack. The banned Baloch Liberation Army had claimed responsibility for the attack.