Over 800 tourists stranded in Sajek amid 72-hour blockade

More than 800 tourists have been stranded in Sajek after a 72-hour blockade was imposed across the three hill districts--Khagrachhari, Rangamati and Bandarban, enforced from Saturday.

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 is ongoing.

According to Yasin Arafat, a lineman for Sajek Jeep Association, around 110-115 jeeps, 50 Mahindra cars, CNGs, and several private vehicles entered Sajek on Friday morning, leaving many tourists stranded after the sudden blockade announcement. 

The president of the Sajek Cottage Owners' Association Suparno Deb Barman, confirmed that tourists who arrived on Friday are stuck, awaiting safe return when conditions improve.

Meanwhile, the Vice President of the association Chai Thoai Chowdhury Joy said there are approximately 800 tourists in Sajek. To ease the burden, resort and cottage owners have reduced accommodation costs by 50% for the day, and this reduction will continue if tourists are unable to leave by Sunday.

Baghaichhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shirin Akter confirmed that no vehicles were allowed to leave due to safety concerns, but tourists are safe in Sajek. Further action will depend on the evolving situation.