‘We never want such development destroying nature’

CHT DESK:

It is detrimental to the natural beauty of Shailo Propat (waterfall) if a hanging bridge is constructed on it said locals and environmentalist.

“We never want such development destroying nature. Let the waterfall remain as it was before”, said one Living Bawm, a local of Shailo Propat area.

“Shailo Propat, one of the famous tourist spot of Bandarban will lose its beauty if the bridge is constructed on it”, said Zir Kung Shahu, a senior citizen of Bandarban.

“We should not disturb nature. We should all let nature be as it is. The construction of such concrete structures will destroy the environment of the waterfall”, said Zir Kung.

“This bridge will not be of any use to the locals. In the name of development, such bridges are being constructed in unnecessary places in Bandarban”, said Zuamlian Amlai, chairperson of Bandarban chapter of Parbatya Chattogram Forest and Land Rights Protection.

“A project has been taken to construct a hanging bridge on the Shailo Propat (waterfall) so that tourist can enjoy the natural scenery of the waterfall”, said Jahangir Hossain, Project Implementation Officer (PIO) of Bandarban Sadar upazila.

“We have already constructed pillars on both sides of the waterfall and also stairs in the area spending Tk 2 lakh. Due to lack of funds and further planning, the construction of the bridge is currently on hold”, the PIO said.

When contacted, Shajia Afroz, Bandarban Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO)declined to comment on this.