RANGAMATI, March 3, (V7N) - Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan has issued a stern warning that construction of resorts or tourist centers by cutting down mountains or damaging the environment will not be tolerated. He emphasized that the government supports only eco-tourism initiatives that preserve the natural beauty of the hills.

Speaking as chief guest at a view-sharing meeting with council officials at the Rangamati Hill District Council auditorium on Tuesday, the minister said: “The government does not support tourism development by destroying the environment. Our goal is to protect the hills and promote eco-tourism.”

He stressed that health and education are the current priorities, while infrastructure projects will only continue where absolutely necessary. Dewan called for better coordination among departments to avoid delays and warned against unnecessary projects that waste public funds. “Proper supervision must be ensured. No irregularities will be tolerated in the name of service,” he added.

Officials present highlighted the challenges of high transportation and labor costs in the hilly region compared to the plains. They sought government intervention for fair tender rates and special support in eco-tourism, education, communication, and fisheries development in Kaptai Lake.

The meeting was chaired by Rangamati Hill District Council Chairman Kajal Talukder and attended by senior officials including Joint Secretary Konkan Chakma, Vice Chairman Sheikh Saleh Ahmed, CEO Khondaker Mohammad Rizaul Karim, and council members.

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