With sights fixed on the reactor, 13 million Tokyoites began to panic in late afternoon as the government warned there was a high possibility of sudden blackout in the metro area.

FORBES: Japan's Nuclear Fears Hit Tokyo Thursday

But with NTL due to change its name to Virgin Media next year, NTL also has UK commercial broadcaster ITV in its sights as a takeover target, part of its plans to offer television as well as broadband, fixed-line and mobile telecommunications services.

CNN: Branson, Murdoch square off in media war