Rising Sangu River stranded 100 tourists in Bandarban

More than 100 tourists have been stranded in the Tindu, Remakri and Nafakhum tourist destinations in Bandarban’s Thanchi Upazila after continuous heavy rainfall caused the Sangu River to swell, forcing authorities to suspend boat services.

Since Monday morning, boat operations on the river have remained suspended as the water level approached the danger mark and the current became too strong for safe navigation.

The suspension has left tourists unable to return from the remote tourist spots.

Thanchi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mohammad Abdullah-Al-Faisal said no boat services would be allowed until conditions improve, stressing that the safety of tourists remains the administration’s top priority.

“We will arrange for the stranded tourists to return safely in phases once the river becomes navigable,” he said.

The UNO said the stranded tourists are staying in safe locations and that the local administration is ensuring they receive the necessary assistance.

Authorities have also urged residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel on the river until the water level and current return to normal.

According to the Bandarban District Weather Office, 135 millimetres of rainfall had been recorded in the district as of 3:00 pm on Monday, contributing to the sharp rise in the Sangu River’s water level.