Rangamati, Feb 26 (V7N) – On Monday, a devastating fire ravaged Sajek Valley, burning down 94 structures. Following this tragic event, the district administration has imposed a temporary ban on tourist visits to the area. The news was confirmed by the Rangamati District Commissioner, Habib Ullah.
 
Habib Ullah stated, “We have requested a temporary ban on tourists visiting Sajeek.”
 
The fire completely destroyed 94 buildings in Sajeek's Eco Valley, including 32 resorts, 35 homes, 20 shops, and 7 restaurants.
 
Suborn Deb Barman, the president of the Sajek Resort Owners Association, revealed that of the 35 homes burned, 19 belonged to the Tripura community, while the rest were from the Lusai community.
 
According to Assistant Commissioner Imtiaz Yasin from the Rangamati District Administration's media wing, the total number of destroyed structures may range from 120 to 140. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported.
 
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit.
 
Indrajit Chakma, the owner of the Sajek Hillview Resort, said, "Around 12:45 PM on Monday, the fire broke out at the Eco Valley Resort and quickly spread to nearby resorts. Despite attempts by locals, the military, and the police to extinguish the flames, they were unsuccessful."
 
Fire stations from Baghaichhari, Dighinala, Khagrachari, Panchhari, and Rangamati, with 11 fire units, rushed to the scene. Through combined efforts, the fire was brought under control by 5 PM.
 
Mohammad Zaker Hossain, the Deputy Director of the Khagrachhari Fire Service and Civil Defense, explained, “While the fire was under control by 5 PM, water was being sprayed to prevent it from spreading further. However, the mountainous terrain made it difficult to transport water.”
 
Rangamati District Commissioner Habib Ullah assured, "A complete list of the actual damages will be prepared, and assistance will be provided to those affected."
 
END/BT/SMA/