At least 15 people were injured in a clash between tourists and local CNG-run auto-rickshaw drivers on the road to Khaiyachhara Waterfall in Chattogram’s Mirsarai upazila.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning (September 3). Following the clash, tourists blocked the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway for about 20 minutes in protest.
According to witnesses, a group of tourists from Companiganj in Noakhali arrived by bus to visit Khaiyachhara Waterfall. When the bus attempted to enter the waterfall road from the highway, local auto-rickshaw drivers objected, sparking an altercation that escalated into a violent clash.
One of the injured tourists, Biplob, alleged: “When we tried to enter with our vehicle, the CNG drivers attacked us with sticks and sharp weapons. Several of us, including Hasan, Sakib, and Siam, were seriously injured. We were shocked by their behavior. Later, police intervened, and we decided to leave with our bus.”
Tourists claimed they faced harassment and attacks from the locals, raising concerns about safety in the area.
On the other hand, CNG driver Anwar Hossain said: “We only told them that large buses are not allowed to enter the road to the waterfall as it is narrow. Usually, buses stop on the highway, and tourists take CNGs, rickshaws, or walk to the site. They refused to comply and attacked us instead, injuring several of our men, including Hora Mia, Gias Uddin, Fakhrul, Pabel, Kamrul, and Arman.”
Mirsarai Police Station OC Atikur Rahman confirmed the incident: “Tourists attempted to take their bus onto the waterfall road when CNG drivers blocked them, leading to an altercation. Police rushed to the spot, after which the tourists left with their bus. No formal complaint has been lodged.”
