Bangladesh closes Sajek to tourists and sets departure deadline

Authorities in Bangladesh closed Sajek Valley to tourists Sunday and ordered visitors already staying there to leave by 5 p.m. Oct. 13, Bangladesh time, according to The Business Standard.

Rangamati deputy commissioner and district magistrate Nazma Ashrafi issued the notice, which took effect at 6 p.m. Oct. 11, Bangladesh time and remains in force until further notice. The administration cited unavoidable reasons without explaining them.

The order adds an official tourism restriction to disruptions caused by an indefinite road blockade that began earlier Sunday.

In a separate report, United News of Bangladesh (UNB) said two local groups blocked the Baghaihat-Sajek road while demanding removal of armed Jana Samhati Samiti members.

Police said they escorted tourists out of Sajek at 2:30 p.m. Sunday and escorted incoming visitors toward the destination. The later notice instructed tourists to return safely to their destinations.