Islamabad, Jan 18 (DPA) Insurgents fighting government forces in Pakistan's southern Balochistan province Thursday blew up two electricity pylons in Dera Bugti district, news reports said.

Explosives were used to damage the power network in Paish Bogi area and cause disruptions to supplies to the town of Sui, officials told the private Geo news channel.

Security forces cordoned off the area and started a search for the saboteurs, the officials said, adding that the electricity provider had been asked to carry out repairs.

Militants have destroyed other power and gas lines in the area in recent weeks, leaving thousands without heat and light in harsh winter weather.

The mineral-rich province witnessed a rise in insurgent activities after government authorities allegedly killed a tribal chief and rebel leader, Nawab Akbar Bugti, in August 2006.

Locals claim they do not get their share of profit earned by the central government from resources in Balochistan.

--DPA