From Our Correspondent:Â
Gas supplies to Quetta and several parts of Balochistan were disrupted after an explosion damaged a major gas pipeline near Gokurt in Bolan, officials of the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) said.
According to SSGC officials, an 18-inch-diameter gas pipeline was damaged by an explosive device near its valve assembly. The installation is located around 800 metres from the National Highway.
The blast led to the suspension of gas supplies to Quetta, Kolpur, Mach, Mastung, Kalat, Pishin and Ziarat, affecting a large number of consumers across the region.
Flames were seen rising from the damaged pipeline following the explosion, according to information from the site.
SSGC officials said the blast occurred at the pipeline’s valve assembly and that repair teams were ready to move to the site. However, the teams will be dispatched only after receiving security clearance to ensure their safety.
The company will assess the extent of the damage before beginning repair and restoration work. Officials have not yet announced how long it will take to fully restore gas supplies to the affected areas.
The disruption comes as households and businesses in several districts remain dependent on the pipeline network for their daily gas needs. Any prolonged suspension could create additional difficulties for residents and commercial consumers.
Security officials are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion and determine who was responsible for damaging the gas infrastructure.
