Due to nearly a week of continuous rain, mountain
runoff, and upstream water inflow, the water level in Kaptai Lake has risen,
submerging the "Symbol of Rangamati," the famous hanging bridge
(jhulonto shetu) in Rangamati. Since Friday morning (August 23), the
authorities have banned the movement of tourists and locals over the bridge due
to the increased water level in the lake.
Authorities have been vigilant, with the control
room of the Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Plant providing regular updates. As of 2
PM on Friday, the water level in Kaptai Lake was 106.06 MSL (Mean Sea Level).
Alok Bikash Chakma, the Rangamati Tourism Holiday
Complex manager, reported that the bridge has submerged due to increased water
flow from upstream. Access for visitors is currently suspended, and repair work
is underway. He also mentioned that the bridge will be reopened to visitors as
soon as the water level decreases.
Since its construction in 1983, the hanging bridge
has been a cherished part of Rangamati's history and culture. It is celebrated
domestically and internationally as the "Symbol of Rangamati."