Rangamati, Feb 24 (V7N) – A mysterious fire broke out in Sajek, Rangamati, early Monday morning (February 24), gutting more than 150 homes, resorts, and businesses. The fire reportedly started at Awkas Resort around 1 AM and quickly spread to nearby establishments.

According to local sources, the fire raged for nearly five hours before being fully brought under control with the combined efforts of locals, the army, the fire service, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and the police. The financial losses from the incident are estimated to be in the crores of taka.

The Rangamati District Administration stated that the fire originated from a short circuit at the Sajek Recreational Manual Resort and rapidly engulfed surrounding structures.

  • Due to the absence of a fire service unit in Sajek, firefighters had to travel from Dighinala, Khagrachhari, significantly delaying response efforts.
  • By the time the fire was contained, one side of Sajek was almost completely destroyed.
  • Thankfully, no casualties have been reported so far.

Baghaichhari Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Shirin Akter confirmed that the army, along with locals, worked immediately to control the blaze.

After visiting the affected area, Baghaihat Zone Commander Lt. Col. Md. Khairul Amin told local media:

"We have arranged food for the affected families and provided alternative accommodation for stranded tourists."

This is the second major fire in Sajek within a week, raising concerns over the lack of proper fire protection in one of Bangladesh’s most popular tourist destinations. Despite repeated demands from locals, Sajek still does not have a dedicated fire service station, making such incidents even more devastating.

Meanwhile, security forces suspect possible sabotage behind the fire. Local sources report that regional armed groups had been demanding a ransom of Tk 1 million from Sajek businessmen in recent days. Authorities are also investigating whether the fire was a deliberate act by groups attempting to create unrest in the region.

A similar arson attack was reported in Naniarchar, Rangamati, a few days ago, allegedly linked to groups opposed to the Hill Tracts Accord.

END/MSS/AJ