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Three major rivers in Bandarban remained above the danger level on Tuesday following days of heavy rainfall and flash floods from upstream hills, disrupting transport, inundating low-lying areas and leaving more than 100 tourists stranded in remote parts of Thanchi upazila.
The Sangu, Matamuhuri and Bakkhali rivers continued to swell, flooding parts of Bandarban town and surrounding areas. River transport to Thanchi and Ruma upazilas has remained suspended, while landslides triggered by incessant rain have blocked several roads linking the two remote upazilas with the district headquarters.
More than 100 tourists are stranded at three tourist destinations in Thanchi as poor weather, swollen rivers and damaged roads continue to hamper transportation and rescue efforts.
Amid the deteriorating situation, the district administration has banned tourist visits to all tourist destinations in Bandarban until Friday to ensure public safety.
The restriction was announced through an emergency public notice issued on Monday night and signed by Deputy Commissioner Md Saniul Ferdous.
Authorities have also stepped up precautionary measures in view of the continued rainfall and heightened risk of landslides.
The deputy commissioner said awareness campaigns are being conducted through loudspeakers in landslide-prone areas, urging residents to move to safer places if necessary.
A total of 220 cyclone and flood shelters have been kept ready to accommodate people in case of emergency, while the district health department has formed eight medical teams to provide emergency healthcare services in affected areas.
The district administration has urged residents, tourists and transport operators to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official instructions until weather conditions improve.