Rangamati, 23 Aug (V7N)- The continuous heavy rains over several days, coupled with water descending from the mountains in India, have caused the water level in Kaptai Lake to rise significantly. This has led to severe flooding in various areas of Rangamati district, particularly affecting the upazilas of Baghaichhari, Longadu, Bilaichhari, Kaukhali, Naniarchar, and Sadar. As a result, at least 30,000 people are now trapped in waterlogged areas.

Landslides and road collapses have further exacerbated the situation, closing several internal roads and disrupting traffic. Specifically, 21 landslides have occurred along the Ghagra-Barichhari-Bandarban and Rangamati-Khagrachari roads. The flooding in the Kengelchari area has halted all traffic on the Rangamati-Khagrachari road.

In Baghaichhari upazila, the Kachalong river has overflowed, submerging the lower areas of Baghaichhari municipality and eight unions, leaving around 20,000 people stranded. The Baghaichhari Upazila Executive Officer, Shirin Akhter, reported that 3,000 people have taken refuge in 55 shelters, but as floodwaters continue to rise, more villages are being inundated, forcing residents to move toward the shelters.

In Naniarchar upazila, a three-year-old child named Shrestha Chakma tragically died after being swept away by the strong current of the Chengi River. Landslides and rising waters have also submerged 20 houses from the Asharyan project in Kaukhali upazila, while the inter-district traffic between Rangamati and Khagrachari remains suspended due to flooding.

In Longadu upazila, rising water levels in the Maini River have flooded several areas, and 16 shelters have been prepared to accommodate those affected. Many residents have moved to higher ground, and educational activities have been suspended in some schools.

Additionally, the flooding has trapped at least 250 tourists in Rangamati. The iconic suspension bridge in Kaptai Lake, a major tourist attraction, has been submerged, leading to a ban on crossing the bridge. The Rangamati Tourism Corporation has confirmed this ban, citing safety concerns.

The district administration has opened 262 shelters across Rangamati, including 75 in urban areas, in preparation for further potential disasters. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Mosharf Hossain Khan emphasized the risk of landslides and urged residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate to safer shelters.

As the water level in Kaptai Lake continues to rise, anxiety is growing among those living in low-lying areas. The lake's water level has reached 106.06 feet MSL, nearing its maximum capacity of 109 feet MSL. The Karnaphuli Water Power Plant has increased its production, and 30,000 cusecs of water are being released per second for power generation. Despite rumors on social media, the gates of the Kaptai Dam have not been opened without prior warning. The plant's management has assured that all relevant authorities are informed before any such action is taken.

The overall political situation in the affected areas has led to delays in government assistance. Local representatives are struggling to provide timely aid due to administrative challenges and the absence or inaction of some officials.

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