Sajek blockade disrupts tourism for 10 days

The blockade, called by two organisations demanding the implementation of five-point demands, has effectively isolated Sajek from the Baghaichhari upazila headquarters and Khagrachhari. The ongoing shutdown has adversely affected tourism businesses, the transportation of locally produced agricultural goods and the daily lives of residents.

Meanwhile, the protesters have announced a 12-hour relaxation of the blockade from 6:00am to 6:00pm on Sunday (November 1) to allow local residents to purchase essential food supplies and transport agricultural produce to markets.

The tenth day of the blockade was observed from Saturday (October 31). Due to the suspension of vehicle movement, local residents as well as tourism-related businesses have been facing considerable difficulties.

According to the protesters, ordinary vehicles and goods-carrying transports will be allowed to operate during the 12-hour relaxation period on Sunday. However, the blockade will resume after the designated period.

The indefinite blockade began on October 22 in response to five demands raised by the protesting organisations. Their demands include resolving the prevailing situation in Sajek, removing members of armed groups and ensuring security and stability in the area.

Although several rounds of discussions have been held with the administration over the demands, no final agreement has yet been reached.

The prolonged blockade has also brought the tourism sector in Sajek to a standstill. With tourist vehicles unable to operate, resorts, cottages, hotels, restaurants and transport-related businesses are facing financial losses. At the same time, concerns are growing over local residents' access to food and other essential commodities.

Rahul Chakma, organising secretary of the Sajek Resort and Cottage Owners Association, told Jago News that Sajek has become deserted by tourists due to the blockade at the beginning of the tourism season.

He said business owners were suffering severe financial losses, while local farmers were also facing difficulties selling their agricultural produce. A one-day relaxation of the blockade would provide some relief, he added. However, they want a swift resolution to the ongoing crisis.

Local residents hope that effective dialogue between the administration and the protesters will resolve the crisis soon, restoring normal road communication and tourism activities in Sajek.

- MaT