The local administration in Rangamati has discouraged tourists from visiting the fire-ravaged Sajek Valley for safety reasons.
Shirin Akter, upazila nirbahi officer of Baghaichhari, said the decision was taken temporarily to ensure tourists鈥� safety following the devastating fire that gutted resorts, cottages and homes in the popular tourist destination on Monday afternoon.
Suporno Deb Borman, president of the Cottage and Resort Owners鈥� Association of Sajek, said that the fire destroyed 35 resorts, 37 cottages, seven restaurants, 19 shops and 37 local dwellings.
The fire broke out at about 1:00pm at Obokash Resort and quickly spread to nearby resorts and cottages.
With the assistance of the Army, Border Guard Bangladesh and local people, firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after three hours of relentless efforts.
Local UNO Shirin mentioned that the full extent of the damages was yet to be determined, but assessments were underway.
Rahul Chakma, organising secretary of the Sajek Resort Owners鈥� Association, lamented the severe losses and demanded the establishment of a fire service station in Sajek to prevent future disasters.
