Some 600-700 people of about 150 families, living on Dewanpara island in Kaptai Lake, have remained stranded as the hanging bridge over Kaptai Lake, their only link to mainland, lies submerged for the last two days.

In absence of necessary water transport, they cannot even go to market for daily requirements.

“We of five families have managed an engine boat for daily movement but the rest of our neighbours are facing difficulties for want of water vehicles,” said Basona Chakma, a resident of Dewanpara to the south of the Parjatan Motel.

Considering public safety, the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) and local administration has banned use of the bridge.

“BPC Chairman Hemayet Uddin Talukder discussed the matter with Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Sourendra Nath Chakrabarty last week. Then the DC instructed us to ban public movement on the bridge,” said Aloke Bikash Chakma, executive officer of

Rangamati BPC.

The bridge will reopen for visitors after renovation and reduction in water level, he added.

Sporadic but heavy downpour in the upstream led to the rise in water level ofthe lake. The bridge goes under water during the rainy seasoneveryyear.

Although this current season has been dull for tourism in the district, domestic tourists are expected to throng Rangamati during the Eid holidays, like every year.

BPC earns over Tk 1 lakh during and after Eid holidays each year, BPC sources said.

But it has already stopped selling tickets for the bridge for the time being.

"Our motel is already booked till September 20," said Aloke, adding that two cottages, one wooden and another bamboo-made, were constructed to accommodate the tourists.