Bridge linking K-P, Punjab closed after suicide attack at Bhakkar checkpost

The Dera Darya Khan bridge, which connects Punjab to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, also remained shut on Wednesday following a suicide attack on the inter-provincial checkpost in the Dajal area of Punjab’s Bhakkar district a day ago.

At 6:45pm yesterday, a suicide bomber blew himself up near a checkpost just off the Dera Darya Khan bridge, which connects Dera Ismail Khan to Punjab, killing two police personnel and injuring some others.

As a result, security has been beefed up in DI Khan and Bhakkar districts. Punjab police have closed the Dera Darya Khan bridge for traffic and are conducting a search operation in the area.

“The road has been blocked since last night, and we have been stuck here since then,” said an oil tanker driver who was traveling from Dera Ismail Khan to Mahmood Kot in Muzaffargarh.

“If the road remains closed, fuel shortages may emerge at petrol stations. Wheat and other commodities from Punjab may also be delayed, and the markets in Dera Ismail Khan may suffer as a result.”

Another driver, Umar, who was transporting vegetables from Multan, said: “We have been stuck since last night. Police told us that there is a search operation underway, and the road will reopen.

The Punjab Police issued a warning urging travellers to avoid non-essential trips. “If travel is essential, carry complete identification and vehicle documents. Cooperate fully with police and administration, and avoid unnecessary arguments,” the notice said.

The closure has left commuters and transporters stranded, particularly affecting those travelling for work, deliveries, and essential services during Ramazan. Authorities said they are working to reopen the bridge safely once the area is fully secured.