Quetta – November 11, 2024: On the morning of November 9, a devastating blast at Quetta railway station claimed 26 lives and injured over 60 people, including two Christian sanitary workers, Ayaz Masih and Imran Victor. The explosion occurred as the two men were carrying out their morning duties, ensuring the cleanliness of the station before passengers arrived. Both were killed instantly, leaving their families and the community in mourning.

Ayaz Masih, 28, served as a supervisor for the railway’s sanitation team. Known for his diligence, he was supervising work and speaking with his colleague, 35-year-old Imran Victor, when the tragedy struck. Ayaz, once a promising cricketer in Sibi, had dreams of becoming a player like his idol, Babar Azam. However, a motorcycle accident left him with a leg injury that ended his cricket career. Despite this setback, he continued to support his family and played cricket occasionally, bringing joy to those who knew him. Ayaz leaves behind two wives, two children, and an unborn child. His last rites were performed in his hometown of Sibi.

Imran Victor was a 15-year veteran of the railway service. A dedicated family man, he balanced multiple jobs to provide for his wife and three children. Living in a government house in Quetta’s Railway Colony, Imran struggled to secure a better future for his family. He often worked part-time at events in the evenings to supplement his income. Despite his tireless efforts, he faced the challenge of paying for a plot of land in Quetta, which he hoped would one day become a home for his family. Imran was laid to rest in Quetta.

The deaths of Ayaz and Imran highlight the struggles of minority workers who often perform essential yet undervalued duties. Both men were respected and beloved within their communities. Ayaz was remembered as a vibrant sports enthusiast, while Imran’s relentless work ethic and devotion to his family left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

The Quetta railway station, a historical site rebuilt after the 1935 earthquake, has been a target of violence in recent years. The November 9 explosion is one of the deadliest attacks to occur at the station, further destabilizing the already fragile region.

Christian leaders and rights advocates have called for justice and support for the families of Ayaz and Imran. They also urge the government to enhance security measures at public places to prevent such tragedies. As the families of Ayaz and Imran mourn their loss, their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens in the face of adversity, and the hope for a safer future for their children and communities.