An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale killed at least three children and left more than a thousand people without shelter in the south of Tajikistan today.
The earthquake hit yesterday evening. At least 19 people were injured and some were in a serious condition.
The quake almost completely destroyed three villages. About 500 houses were destroyed and stunned villagers were left to huddle in the open overnight.
There was a shortage of clean water and medicine.
The Emergencies Ministry said the neighbouring Panj district was also affected. Several weaker tremors were felt overnight.
