No tourism in CHT from Oct 8 to Oct 31

Authorities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts are discouraging tourists from visiting the region's popular destinations for the remainder of October. 

The deputy commissioners of Rangamati and Bandarban confirmed that they have requested tourists to avoid travel between October 8 and October 31, citing "unavoidable grounds" without providing further details.

Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Mosharraf Hossain Khan stated that the instructions apply to all three hill districts due to the overall situation. 

Previously, travel to Sajek Valley, the most sought after tourist destination in the country, was also discouraged for an indefinite period.

This decision follows sectarian tensions between indigenous hill communities and Bengalis who migrated there. 

Additionally, Buddhist monks have canceled the Kathin Chibar Dan festival, traditionally celebrated in the hill districts, citing security concerns. 

At a press conference in Rangamati, Shraddhalankar Mahathero, president of the Parbatya Bhikkhu Sangha, announced the cancellation, emphasising the need for safety in the region.