(Recasts, adds details)
CALGARY, Alberta, Jan 16 (Reuters) - An intra-provincial pipeline under construction in Canada's oil heartland of Alberta needs replacement after being damaged by an act of "mischief," authorities said on Monday.
The incident, which was reported to police on Sunday, happened to a pipeline belonging to Paramount Resources Ltd POU.TO , according to the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER). No product was leaked as the pipeline is not yet operational.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said it appeared the culprit or culprits tried to used construction equipment to dig up the pipeline and estimated the damages at C$500,000 ($380,000) to C$700,000.
Police did not provide a motive for the incident, but said officers are investigating.
The AER, which regulates pipelines that are entirely within the Alberta province, confirmed the damaged line was under its jurisdiction, but declined to provide additional details.
It is not immediately clear what project the pipeline was for or what product it was meant to carry. Paramount did not immediately respond to requests for comment.