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Three days of relentless rainfall have swollen rivers, streams and canals across the hill districts of Bandarban and Khagrachhari, triggering widespread waterlogging, disrupting transport and raising fears of landslides.
In Bandarban, the Sangu, Matamuhuri and Bakkhali rivers remained above the danger level on Tuesday after flash floods from upstream hills, inundating low-lying areas and disrupting normal life.
River transport to Thanchi and Ruma upazilas has been suspended due to the swollen rivers, while landslides have blocked several sections of roads linking Bandarban with the two upazilas, cutting off road communication.
More than 100 tourists remain stranded at three tourist destinations in the remote areas of Thanchi as adverse weather continues to hamper rescue efforts and transportation.
Amid worsening weather conditions and an increased risk of landslides, the district administration has suspended tourist visits to all tourist destinations in Bandarban until Friday. The restriction was announced in a public notice signed by Deputy Commissioner Md Saniul Ferdous on Monday night.
The deputy commissioner said awareness campaigns are being carried out through loudspeakers in landslide-prone areas to minimise casualties. He added that 220 cyclone and flood shelters have been kept ready for emergency use, while the Health Department has formed eight medical teams to provide emergency healthcare services in affected areas.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve.
Meanwhile, in Khagrachhari, continuous rainfall has caused rivers, streams and canals to overflow, creating waterlogging in several parts of the district. Floodwater has entered roads and homes, causing hardship for residents in low-lying areas and heightening the risk of landslides.
On Tuesday, low-lying areas of Muslim Para, parts of Uttar Ganjpara and Mehedi Bagh in the district headquarters were submerged. Roads in Maischhari Bazar of Mahalchhari Upazila and the Dighinala–Langadu road also went under water, disrupting traffic.
The district administration said more than 100 families living in landslide-prone hillside areas are being relocated to safer locations. Shelter centres have also been prepared for flood-affected residents.
Deputy Commissioner Anwar Sadat said all necessary disaster preparedness and public awareness measures have been put in place. He added that authorities will decide on further action based on the latest weather forecast.
