More than 800 tourists have remained stuck in Sajek during the 72-hour blockade in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Many vehicles have been damaged and workers have been injured during the blockade.
The United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) has thrown its weight behind the road and waterway blockade announced from a rally of agitated people in Dhaka on Saturday (September 22) following violence in Khagrachhari and Rangamati.
Yasin Arafat, a transport worker in Khagrachhari, said, “The tourists entered Sajek by 170 vehicles on Friday.”
The UPDF blocked roads by burning tires in different places. The deck of the bailey bridge has been removed. Considering the safety of tourists and vehicles, no vehicle left or entered Sajek since Saturday, Yasin said.
Many vehicles have been damaged and workers have been injured during the blockade.
Suparno Deb Barman, president of the Sajek Cottage Owners’ Association, said, “The stranded tourists will stay here until the situation improves. We are in regular contact with law enforcement. When the situation improves, tourists will be sent back.”
Baghaichhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shirin Akhter said, “No vehicle was released on Saturday due to the blockade. Further action will be taken depending on the situation.”
The lynching of a youth in Khagrachhari allegedly triggered deadly clashes in the district’s Dighinala and in Rangamati, leaving four people dead and dozens injured.
