Strong currents in Sangu River leaves over 100 tourists stranded in Bandarban

Around 120 tourists from different parts of the country have become stranded in the Tindu and Remakri unions of Thanchi Upazila in Bangladesh's Bandarban district after the water level of the Sangu River rose due to three consecutive days of heavy rainfall.

On Monday (July 6), strong river currents disrupted boat transportation, forcing the tourists to remain in the area. Authorities said all of them are currently safe.

According to local sources, continuous rainfall over the past several days has caused the Sangu River's water level to rise rapidly, making boat travel to various tourist destinations in Thanchi highly risky. Locals have advised travelers to avoid visiting these areas until conditions improve.

The upazila administration said it is closely monitoring the river's water level and is prepared to launch rescue operations if necessary.

Mohammad Mamun, a local guide accompanying the stranded tourists, said the Sangu River has swollen to a dangerous level, severely disrupting boat services. As a result, the tourists have been unable to return to Bandarban town as scheduled.

He said around 70 tourists are currently staying in the Nafakhum area of Tindu Union, while another 50 to 60 tourists are in Remakri Union. Due to the strong currents and rising water level, they are unable to travel. However, all of them remain safe and in good health.

Speaking to Asia Post, Officer-in-Charge (OC) Kanan Sarkar of Thanchi Police Station said the police have not yet received any official report about tourists being stranded. However, they are looking into the matter. If anyone is found to be stranded, arrangements will be made to bring them back safely with the assistance of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and, if necessary, rescue teams.