International

Islamabad, Aug. 30(PTI): Gas supply to several parts of Pakistan's restive Balochistan province was disrupted today after suspected Baloch militants blew up a major pipeline in the mineral rich region.

A spokesman for the Sui Southern Gas company said the pipeline was located some 350 km south of the provincial capital Quetta.

Pipelines are targeted regularly in this gas-rich province where tribal groups are pushing for greater autonomy.

The blast also damaged electricity transformer, electric poles and several houses. The pipeline caught fire after the blast.

Najmuddin Tarin, a police officer in Sui, said explosives were used to blow up the 16-inch diametre pipeline.

One Sarbaz Baluch, who introduced himself as spokesman for Baloch Republican Army, claimed responsibility for the attack.

He told journalists over phone that the pipeline was located near Sui cantonment airport road. A water tanker was blown up in Sui two days ago.

Opposition groups in Balochistan said army operations have been continuing in parts of the province for 20 months.

Analysts say there has been no change in the situation despite the operations.

Officials said that repair work of the gas pipeline has started and gas supply will be restored soon.

President Pervez Musharraf, in the past, accused tribal leaders of putting up armed resistance to his plans to build a sea port and road network to turn Balochistan into a major trading zone.

But Baloch tribal leaders say their struggle is for greater provincial autonomy and an increased share of mineral resources from the gas and oil rich province