Local authorities in the hill district of Bandarban are planning to restart the suspended Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) school examinations and reopen all popular tourist destinations this coming Thursday, provided that weather conditions continue to stabilise.
The decision comes after a week of intense monsoon downpours and sudden flash floods completely halted normal life across the region. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Deputy Commissioner Md Saniul Ferdous explained that these reopening plans will officially take effect if the floodwaters continue to fall and the weather remains safe by 16 July.
The district suffered heavy disruption following seven straight days of relentless rain. The rapid deluge quickly submerged most low-lying areas, trapping more than 100,000 residents and flooding 29 out of the 34 local unions. Landslides and overflowing water from the Sangu and Matamuhuri rivers cut off vital road connections, forcing schools to shut down and prompting a complete suspension of local travel activities.
To guarantee public safety, the district administration initially advised against all travel to the area from 6 July. As the situation grew more severe, they formally extended the travel bans and exam delays until 15 July.
Thankfully, the rain has slowed down over the last few days, and the water levels in the local rivers are finally dropping back to normal. With the immediate flood risks fading, local authorities are now working quickly to clear the area so students can finish their qualifications and the vital regional tourism business can safely welcome visitors back.
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