The upazilla administration has imposed a one-week travel ban on Debotakhum, a popular tourist destination in Bandarban Hill district. Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Rowangchhari, Saiful Islam has issued a public notice in this regard.
According to the notice, continuous heavy rainfall has caused a dangerous rise in water levels across rivers, streams, and waterfalls in the hilly areas of the district. There is also an increased risk of landslides in several locations. Under these conditions, travel to and stay in Debotakhum is deemed unsafe. For the safety of tourists and local residents, travel to Debotakhum will remain prohibited from this afternoon until June 25.
The notice also instructs local tourism-related stakeholders to take cautionary steps , conduct awareness campaigns, and ensure strict monitoring during this period.
Bishwanath Tanchangya, Chairman of Alikadam Union Parishad, said that the Taracha Canal’s section in Debotakhum often becomes hazardous during the monsoon season. On June 10, several tourists were caught off guard by a sudden mountain flash flood. They were rescued due to the quick and courageous actions of local tour guides. A major accident could have occurred otherwise.
Located in Shilbandha Para of Rowangchhari upazila, Debotakhum is around 20 kilometers from Bandarban hill town. The site was reopened to tourists on February 11 this year after being closed for 15 months due to joint security operations against the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF).
Now, due to adverse weather conditions, authorities have once again suspended tourist activities in Debotakhum for safety reasons.