Venezuelan authorities have launched a strict water rationing programme in the Capital, Caracas, to offset a 25 per cent shortfall in its water supply.

The rationing measures during the next six months will leave large parts of the city without water for up to 48 hours a week.

President Hugo Chavez has blamed the weather phenomenon, El Nino for the lack of rain during what should have been the wet season.

However, the Opposition has accused the government of poor management of the country’s water resources.