Train to Turmoil: Balochistan’s War
Train to Turmoil: Balochistan's War
Train to Turmoil: Balochistan’s Escalating Insurgency and the Jaffar Express Hijacking
A Hijacking That Shook the Region
On March 11, 2025, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants hijacked the Jaffar Express in a Balochistan tunnel, taking over 200 hostages during Ramzan. The standoff ended 30 hours later with 33 rebels killed, but not before 21 passengers and 30+ security personnel lost their lives—marking the deadliest attack since 2018.
The BLA demanded the release of Baloch prisoners, declaring captured personnel as “prisoners of war.” Pakistan’s refusal to negotiate highlighted the deepening divide.
The Rise of a Unified Baloch Resistance
In early 2025, Baloch militant groups under BRAS—including the BLA, BLF, BRG, and Sindhudesh Revolutionary Army (SRA)—announced plans to form a Balochistan National Army. Their strategy includes:
- Ideological training
- Modern tech adoption
- Coordinated media and military campaigns
This unification signals a more organized and potent insurgency.
Historical Roots of the Conflict
Balochistan’s struggle dates back to 1948, when Pakistan annexed the region despite initial independence declarations. Since then, five major insurgency waves have erupted:
- 1950s: Rebellion against centralization
- 1960s: Nationalist revolt led by General Sherof
- 1970s: Martial law and tribal uprisings
- 2000s: Triggered by the killing of Nawab Akbar Bugti
- 2020s: Fueled by economic disparity and political suppression
Despite its rich natural resources, Balochistan remains one of South Asia’s poorest regions, with most profits flowing to Islamabad.
Why the Crisis Is Escalating Now
Pakistan’s internal instability, economic crisis, and the Taliban-TTP nexus have stretched its security forces thin. The Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies reported a 70% rise in terror attacks from 2023 to 2024, with Balochistan seeing an 84% increase.
The Jaffar Express hijacking underscores the insurgency’s growing sophistication and the state’s inability to contain it through force alone.
What Lies Ahead
Military crackdowns have historically failed to resolve Balochistan’s unrest. Experts argue that greater autonomy and economic inclusion are essential for lasting peace.
The insurgency’s merger could also threaten Chinese CPEC projects along the Makran Coast, intensifying regional tensions and challenging Pakistan’s strategic interests.