DUSHANBE, March 14, Asia-Plus - The water level in the reservoir powering the Norak hydroelectric power station (HPS) has declined one meter below the critical mark, Uktam Umarov, an official with the Barqi Tojik (Tajik electric systems) power holding, said.

According to him, if the water level in the reservoir will continue to decline they will have to switch off the station.  

In connection with this, strict electricity supplies limitations were introduced in the republic today, the Barqi Tojik official said.  The limitations that also affected some areas of Dushanbe are expected to last until 5:00 p.m. today, according to him.  

He also noted that because of cold weather both Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan had failed to supply the projected amount of electricity to Tajikistan.  “The situation may change for better is the present warm weather will hold out at least for a week,” Umarov said.  

To add to the problems facing the Norak HPS, an accident took place at the 500 kV power-transmission line providing electricity supplies from Uzbekistan.

According to the Dushanbe mayor’s office, in connection with that accident electricity supplies to some areas of the city were cut off today at 8:00.  The supplies will be resumed at 4:00 p.m.