Pakistani authorities say a bomb blast has damaged a gas pipeline in the troubled southwestern province of Baluchistan, disrupting supplies to thousands of homes.
There were no injuries reported in Sunday explosion which cut gas deliveries to homes and businesses in two districts, Mastung and Kalat, south of the provincial capital, Quetta.
No one has claimed responsibility but authorities have blamed Baluch tribesmen for similar attacks in the past.
Rallies are being held in several places in the province to protest the death of tribal leader Nawab Akbar Bugti in a military operation last month, as well as the refusal to hand over the body to his family.
Bugti was buried Friday by authorities in his hometown of Dera Bugti. His family did not take part in the burial.
Bugti had been fighting for provincial autonomy and more royalties for the region's resources. He led a heavily armed militia and had been blamed for the deaths of scores of police and soldiers. The government also accused Bugti of running a feudal justice system complete with private jails.
Pakistan's opposition says the army deliberately targeted Bugti and has demanded an investigation. The army denies the charge.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.
