Uzbekistan, Tashkent, April 1 / Trend D. Azizov /
A strong earthquake similar to the one recently experienced by Japan could destroy large hydrofacilities in Central Asia, Uzbek Hydroproject Director Sergei Zhigarev said.
He analyzed an earthquake's possible catastrophic consequences near the area where the Rogun hydroelectric power station will be built in an article for the Pravda Vostoka newspaper on Tuesday.
"Given a strong earthquake, the dam, with a height of over 335 meters, would not be able to withstand the force. A tsunami would ensure," he said.
If the dam broke, all of Central Asia, and specifically Tajikistan, would suffer a catastrophe.
"Experts predict the Nurek dam would be completely destroyed," he said.
As a result, dozens of other cities and towns in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan would be flooded.
The expert said the Tajik authorities are trying to convince the world that there is no threat of a destructive earthquake in the country.
Tajik Prime Minister Akilov recently said an earthquake measuring more than six on the Richter scale could not occur in the area of Rogun.