Bridge on Quetta–Karachi Highway Destroyed in Blast Near Khad Kocha, Traffic Suspended
KHAD KOCHA: A bridge located on the Quetta–Karachi National Highway near Anjeeri Cross in Khad Kocha, Mastung district, was destroyed in an explosion allegedly caused by explosive material planted by unidentified individuals, resulting in the complete suspension of traffic on one of Balochistan’s most vital transportation routes.
According to initial reports, the powerful blast was heard across the surrounding areas, causing panic among local residents. The explosion completely demolished the bridge, forcing authorities to immediately halt all vehicular movement on the highway. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, as there were reportedly no vehicles on the bridge at the time of the incident.
The destruction of the bridge has severed an important land route connecting Quetta and Karachi, leaving long queues of passenger vehicles, cargo trucks, and transport carriers stranded on both sides of the highway. Thousands of travelers are facing significant difficulties as a result of the road closure.
Following the incident, personnel from law enforcement agencies, Levies Force, police, and other relevant departments rushed to the site and cordoned off the area. Security officials closed the highway to all traffic while bomb disposal and investigative teams began examining the nature of the explosion and the type of explosive materials used.
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine those responsible for the attack and to collect forensic evidence from the scene.
Officials warned that the closure of the Quetta–Karachi Highway could significantly affect commercial activities between Balochistan and other parts of the country, as it serves as one of the province’s most important trade and transportation corridors.
Relevant departments are currently assessing alternative routes for travelers and transport operators. The National Highway Authority (NHA) and the Communications Department have been informed about the damage and are coordinating efforts for the bridge’s restoration and the reopening of the highway.
Engineering teams are expected to begin repair and reconstruction work after completing a detailed assessment of the damage.
Meanwhile, local residents and stranded passengers have urged the Government of Balochistan and the concerned authorities to ensure the immediate reconstruction of the bridge, strengthen security arrangements along the national highway, and adopt effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Authorities have assured the public that investigations are underway and that those responsible will be brought to justice. Until the bridge is restored, citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow official instructions regarding alternative routes and traffic management.
