Tourist access to all Mirsarai waterfalls suspended amid heavy rain, flash flood risk

Authorities have temporarily banned tourist entry to all waterfalls in Chattogram's Mirsarai upazila due to persistent rainfall and the heightened risk of flash floods triggered by hill runoff.

The restriction, announced by the Chattogram North Forest Division, will remain in effect until July 10.

In a notice signed by Baraiyadhala Range Officer Ashraful Alam, the Forest Department directed leaseholders to suspend all tourism activities at the waterfalls until further notice.

Ashraful Alam said heavy rainfall has caused dangerous currents in the streams leading to the waterfalls, significantly increasing safety risks for visitors.

"During this period, many tourists unknowingly expose themselves to danger. To ensure public safety, travel to all waterfalls has been suspended until July 10," he said.

The Baraiyadhala National Park, covering nearly 2,935 acres of forest, is home to several popular waterfalls, including Khoiyachhara, Napittachhara, Ruposhi, Sonaichhari and Bhawachhara, with Khoiyachhara, Napittachhara and Ruposhi drawing the largest number of visitors.

The move follows similar travel restrictions imposed at tourist destinations in Bandarban and Sajek Valley in Rangamati amid continuing adverse weather.