Sajek fire: 95 establishments gutted, govt discourages tourist travel

At least 95 establishments were reduced to ashes in the devastating fire at Sajek Valley, a popular tourist destination in Baghaichhari upazila of Rangamati yesterday (24 February), according to the district administration.

Initial reports suggest an electrical short circuit caused the fire. Investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.

Meanwhile, the administration has temporarily discouraged tourists from travelling to the area.

Sajek fire under control, at least 20 resorts burned

According to the district administration, the fire broke out at around 1:15pm on Monday in the Obokash Resort and quickly spread to surrounding areas.

Locals attempted to douse the flames, and after approximately three and a half hours, the fire was brought under control at around 4:30pm. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.

Fire service units from Dighinala upazila and Khagrachhari worked together to control the blaze. Although two Air Force helicopters were initially scheduled to assist in firefighting efforts, they were not deployed as the fire was contained before evening.

Water shortage hampers firefighting efforts

Locals have alleged that a lack of water reserves in Sajek Valley and the delay in fire service response worsened the damage.

As the area is in a hilly region, fire service vehicles from Dighinala and Khagrachhari took time to reach the site.

"It is not yet possible to estimate the full extent of the damage. Everything was burnt down in an instant. We need more time to gather accurate information," said Moti Joy Tripura, joint general secretary of the Sajek Resort and Cottage Owners' Association.

Lal Thanga Lusai, headman of Ruilui Mouza No 167, confirmed that his house and several nearby establishments were completely destroyed.