Over 700 tourists enter Sajek on first day of lifting ban

Over 700 tourists entered the tourist destination Sajek Valley on the very first day following the withdrawal of travel restrictions.

The arrival of visitors has brought back vibrancy to the hilly tourist spot just ahead of the Durga Puja holidays on Friday. Relief has returned among local residents and tourism-related business owners after the reopening of the destination following a closure of several days.

According to relevant sources, tourist movement was disrupted in recent days due to security concerns and road blockades in Sajek. Considering the situation, the Rangamti district administration temporarily suspended travel to Sajek Valley.

Later, protesters announced the suspension of blockades on the Sajek road from October 16 to 21 for Durga Puja, prompting the district administration to lift the travel ban.

Tourist movement to Sajek began on Friday morning following the lifting of the restriction. Authorities expect the number of visitors to increase further by the afternoon due to the holiday.

Yasir Arafat, line manager of Sajek transport, said tourists started arriving upon hearing the news of the ban withdrawal and blockade suspension. Around 700 tourists entered Sajek in the morning escort, he noted, adding that more visitors are expected in the afternoon escort.

Despite the influx, tourism operators still harbor some anxiety due to recent developments. The closure had raised fears of financial losses across tourist-dependent sectors, including resorts, cottages, transport, and eateries. Operators hope increased tourist traffic will help offset those losses.

Suparno Deb Barman, president of the Sajek Resort and Cottage Owners Association, said ensuring law and order and safe tourist travel is crucial to maintaining normal tourism activities in Sajek. He advised travelers to follow administrative guidelines, check the latest road conditions before traveling, and make advance bookings for the Puja holidays.

-SA