A gas pipeline was blown up in an apparent act of sabotage near Akhtarabad on the outskirts of Quetta on Monday, triggering a fire and disrupting gas supply to multiple areas, officials said.

According to initial reports, the explosion struck a section of the pipeline near the Western Bypass, igniting flames that were visible from a distance. The blast caused significant damage to the infrastructure, forcing authorities to suspend gas supply to adjoining localities.

Police and security personnel rushed to the site shortly after the explosion, cordoning off the area and launching an initial investigation. Gas company officials were also called in to assess the damage and begin repair work.

Authorities confirmed that gas supply to parts of the Western Bypass and nearby neighborhoods has been halted as a precautionary measure. Efforts are underway to control the fire and restore the affected pipeline.

No casualties have been reported so far, and the cause of the explosion is yet to be officially confirmed. However, such incidents in Balochistan have previously been linked to sabotage targeting energy infrastructure.

Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.