The train hijacking in south-western Pakistan represents a major escalation in the region’s long-running insurgency.

The death toll from a militant hijacking of a train in Pakistan's southwestern mountains has risen to 31 soldiers, staff and civilians, the military said on Friday as it accused India and Afghanistan of backing the insurgents.

Pakistan said Friday that the death toll from a train hijacking in the southwestern region climbed to 30 as it accused India and Afghanistan of supporting militants responsible for the attack.