Around 1500 tourists and 500 drivers and staff have been stranded at Sajek Valley in Rangamati's Baghaichhari upazila, due to a blockade in Khagrachari, Dighinala, and Rangamati districts.
The blockade, announced by 'Aggrieved Jumma Chhatra Janata' and supported by United People's Democratic Front (UPDF), has halted all road and river transport in the region. Additionally, an indefinite strike called by a joint owners' association in Rangamati, leading to the situation.
Resort and cottage owners are offering up to 75% discounts on accommodations for the stranded tourists. However, the blockade has also caused shortages of food, gas, and drinking water in the area.
Baghaichhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shirin Akhter stated that the local administration and army are taking necessary steps to address the situation.
Some tourists were airlifted by army helicopters earlier on Monday. The blockade is expected to be relaxed by 3 PM, and normal traffic may resume by Tuesday, allowing all tourists to return to their destinations, she added.
