The Sada Pathor tourist destination in Companiganj upazila of Sylhet has been closed temporarily following continuous rainfall and a surge in hill runoff from upstream areas, local authorities said on Sunday.
Companiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mohammad Robin Mia confirmed the matter, citing safety concerns as rising water levels inundated the popular tourist spot.
According to local sources, relentless rainfall has been affecting the area since Saturday night. Heavy precipitation in the adjoining upstream regions of India has triggered a strong flow of hill runoff, submerging large parts of Sada Pathor and several floating shops operating there.
Business owners said floodwaters have damaged or swept away lockers, chairs, cosmetics and other equipment belonging to local vendors. Such flooding is a recurring phenomenon during the monsoon season, though the rapid rise in water levels has disrupted activities at the site.
Boat services from the local Kheya ghat to the tourist destination remained suspended on Sunday, with no vessels operating due to the hazardous conditions. Tourists last visited the site on Saturday before the area was inundated.
The closure has also affected the livelihoods of more than a hundred families dependent on tourism-related activities, including boat services, transport, hotels and small businesses. Traders said the monsoon season typically attracts a large number of visitors, but the current situation has left the area virtually devoid of tourists, cutting off their primary source of income.
“We have advised tourists to refrain from visiting Sada Pathor until the situation improves,” UNO Mohammad Robin Mia said.
He added that a decision on reopening the tourist destination would be taken once water levels recede, the current weakens and weather conditions stabilize.