The epicenter of the earthquake was located 27km (17 miles) east of Rasht district, according to authorities in the mountainous country.

“Dozens of houses were destroyed. Power lines were also partly damaged,” the Tajik committee for emergency situations said.

“A special commission, established at the behest Tajik President under the leadership of the Prime Minister of the country, has started its work and is studying the extent of the damage,” the committee added.