Bandarban shuts tourist spots until July 15 amid flood threat

The Bandarban district administration has temporarily closed all tourist attractions until July 15 as continuous rainfall, flooding and landslides raise safety concerns across the hill district.

The decision was announced through a public notice issued on Friday night by Deputy Commissioner Md Saniul Ferdous.

Under the directive, access to waterfalls, hill trails, rivers, remote destinations and other high-risk tourist locations has been suspended. Tourists, tour operators and local residents have been advised not to travel to these areas until weather conditions improve.

Authorities said the precautionary measure was taken to protect lives and property as heavy rain continues to batter the district.

Bandarban has been experiencing uninterrupted rainfall for the past four days, triggering widespread flooding and disrupting normal life.

Officials said the Sangu and Matamuhuri rivers are flowing above the danger level, while flooding and landslides have cut off road links between Bandarban and Chattogram, Rangamati and Cox‍‍`s Bazar.

Transport has also been affected within the district, with traffic on several internal roads suspended and water transport services remaining closed.

According to the district administration, around 2,100 flood-affected residents have taken shelter in 220 emergency shelters.

Relief operations are ongoing, with the district administration, Bandarban Municipality, the Bangladesh Army and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) distributing dry food, cooked meals and other essential supplies to those affected.