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Gas supply to Punjab, NWFP affected by yokels
The main gas pipeline to the Punjab and the NWFP from Sui was blown up again on Sunday night as the blast completely damaged two supply pipes of 30 inch and 20 inch diameter. The incident took place inside Balochistan, a few kilometres away from Sui. Initial reports suggested the terrorists dug out the subsurface supply line and blew it up with a bomb. This main supply line catered to around 45 per cent needs of the total gas requirement of Punjab and the NWFP. The channels supply 600 million cubic/feet from the total of 1000 mc/ft of gas every day to Punjab and the NWFP. Soon after the explosion, the pressure in the pipes started decreasing and complete suspension of gas supply was expected by early Monday. This looks like a little more than just the Bugtis and Mazaris potting each other, even if they are in the habit of using heavy weapons in their feud... The big explosion was followed by a huge fireball, which could be seen from miles. The SNGPL teams were despatched to the spot and the restoration work was underway. The SNGPL officials believed the gas supply could be restored within a day or so. The extent of the on-the-spot damage could not be estimated as the restoration operations were on. However, the dried pipes will cause loss in millions as the entire gas-dependant industry in Punjab and the NWFP would be affected. "Hey, Mahmoud! Y'know what'd be really neat?" "Whut, Ahmed?" "We should blow that pipeline." "Wow! Bet that'll make a fireball!" "Yeah. Then we can pop across the border and pot some infidels." "You said 'pot.' Huh huh!" Posted by: Fred Pruitt 2003-01-28 |
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