Life in Rangamati is gradually returning to normal following recent violence, as both Pahari and Bangalee buyers and sellers filled the Banarupa weekly market on Tuesday, creating an atmosphere resembling any regular day.
Despite some lingering fear, the market saw a mix of Pahari and Bangalee vendors busy with shoppers.
Shops, offices, and courts in the city are also operating as usual, and traffic has returned to normal on all routes, easing public anxiety.
Local residents expressed hope that such incidents would not recur.
"People have started coming back to Banarupa Bazar since yesterday (Monday). Today, both hill and Bangalee communities have come. The fear is slowly fading, and things will soon return to normal," said Mangal Chakma, a vegetable vendor in the market.
Shobha Rani Chakma, another trader, said: "Even though things are improving, there’s still some fear of what might happen next. We want everything to be resolved soon."
Salim Ullah, a shopper, echoed similar sentiments: "We come to this market from all communities. What happened on Friday was shocking. We hope this never happens again. We are peace-loving people and wish to live in harmony as Pahari and Bangalees. Those responsible for the violence should face justice."
According to the district administration, the violence caused significant damage to public property, including two government offices, 89 shops, four banks, 85 floating shops, two religious institutions, 46 vehicles, two diagnostic centres, and a police box. The estimated financial loss stands at Tk9 crore. A list of the affected has been sent to the ministry for further action.
