11 tourists injured as a “Chander Gari” overturns en route to Keokradong

Staff Report: PNN

Eleven tourists from Kushtia were injured when their “Chander Gari” overturned on the way to Keokradong in Ruma Upazila, Bandarban. The accident occurred early Thursday morning (20 November) at the ‘Pepe Bagan’ area of Keokradong road.

The injured are Siddikur Rahman (55), Hashmat (45), Rashedul (44), Afikul Islam (44), Sohel Rana (45), Faruk Ahmed (42), Akram Ali (37), Zuma (26), Rumi Akter (28), Belayet (33), and the group’s guide Swapan Barua (34).

Ruma UNO Md. Adnan Chowdhury said that after departing from Bogalek towards Keokradong, the vehicle lost control and overturned. Locals quickly rescued the tourists and took them to Ruma Health Complex. Two severely injured were referred to Bandarban Sadar Hospital.

Police and local sources said that 13 tourists, including the guide, had set out for the Keokradong peak in the Chander Gari. At Pepe Bagan, the vehicle lost balance due to steep roads and a bend, causing the overturn. Several were trapped underneath and seriously injured.

Ruma Sadar OC Mohammad Sohrawardi said, “Upon receiving news of the accident, police were dispatched to the site. The injured were taken to the hospital, and necessary measures are being taken.”

Locals mentioned that accidents frequently occur on Keokradong roads due to the hilly curves, and tourists and residents demand safety improvements.