Fire breaks out in Sajak: Over 30 resorts and cottages destroyed in Ruilui valley

A massive fire has swept through the popular Ruilui tourist area in Sajak Union, Baghaichhari Upazila, Rangamati, causing widespread panic among tourists.

The fire started around 1:00 PM on Monday, February 24, at the Sajak Eco Valley Resort, which is located next to the residence of Lalthangya Lusai, the Headman of Ruilui Valley. 

The flames quickly spread to nearby cottages and residential areas. Hundreds of tourists were seen fleeing from the resorts in fear as the fire spread rapidly.

By 2:30 PM, more than 30 resorts and cottages were reported to be on fire, according to a local Union Parishad member. "We are doing everything we can to put out the fire, but we are unable to control it," said Suporna Deb Barman, president of the Sajak Resort and Cottage Owners Association. "Several resorts and cottages have already been destroyed by the flames."

Local residents, along with staff from the resorts and cottages, are trying to douse the fire themselves, but there has been no official report of casualties so far. 

"So far, the fire has spread to around 30-35 resorts and cottages," said Anitya Tripura, a local UP member.

At the time of the incident, the fire service had yet to arrive at the scene. 

However, Shirin Akter, the Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) of Baghaichhari, confirmed that a fire service team from Dighinala was on its way to help contain the blaze.

The cause of the fire remains unclear, but efforts to control it are ongoing. 

The Sajak area is a popular tourist destination, and the damage caused by this devastating fire is still being assessed.