nurek

Nurek is a town in southern Tajikistan, serving as the administrative center of Nurek District in the Khatlon Region. It lies on the right bank of the Vakhsh River, near the Nurek Dam and the associated reservoir, which dominate the local landscape and economy.

The Nurek Dam is a gravity dam on the Vakhsh River and one of the tallest concrete dams in the world. Construction began in the 1950s and was completed in 1961 under Soviet administration. The dam creates the Nurek Reservoir, a substantial artificial lake used for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The Nurek Hydroelectric Station is a major component of Tajikistan’s power system, contributing a significant portion of the country’s electricity and shaping regional development in the valley.

Historically, the area around Nurek grew in connection with the dam project. The construction period brought workers and engineers to the area, and after completion the town developed as a service and administrative center for dam operations and reservoir management. The surrounding region is mountainous, with climate and terrain typical of Tajik foothill areas, making the reservoir and dam notable landmarks for both local residents and visitors.

Economy around Nurek centers on hydroelectric power, supported by agriculture in the Vakhsh Valley and related services. Nurek is connected by road to Dushanbe and other regional centers, and it serves as a gateway to southern Tajikistan’s valleys.