Jaffar Express attack: Minister announces Rs5.2m compensation for each martyr, jobs for families

LAHORE: Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has announced Rs5.2 million in compensation for the families of each victim martyred in the Jaffar Express attack in Balochistan.

Additionally, he pledged employment opportunities for their children in the railways department.

Addressing his first press conference at the Railway Headquarters after assuming office, Abbasi commended the security forces for preventing suicide bombers from detonating inside the train, warning that national unity was crucial in the fight against terrorism. “If the nation does not stand behind the army now, the situation will become dire,” he stressed, vowing decisive action against insurgents.

Abbasi accused the PTI and its supporters of targeting the military following the attack and questioned whether the party was receiving financial backing to criticise the armed forces. He stated that after the Jaffar Express attack, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief had resolved to eliminate terrorists, whether within Pakistan or those hiding in Afghanistan.

Condemning India for orchestrating the attack with Afghan involvement, he criticised certain domestic factions for remaining silent while the US and China had condemned the incident. “The nation mourns the tragedy, yet some political factions echoed India’s rhetoric,” he remarked, urging political parties to set aside differences for national security.

On railways reforms, Abbasi stressed punctuality, cleanliness, and security upgrades. He criticised delays in the ML-1 project, promising its initiation with government funding. “Railway police need better scanning equipment and operational independence,” he added.

Key measures announced include reducing cargo transport costs, addressing wagon shortages, and rehabilitating aging tracks, particularly in Sialkot. Abbasi also sought federal support for Rawalpindi, similar to government assistance in other regions.

Vowing transparency and efficiency, he pledged station upgrades, surveillance enhancements, and cargo system improvements. “We will not compromise on these issues,” he asserted.