The local administration has officially lifted the travel ban on Ruma and Thanchi upazilas of Bandarban, clearing the way for unrestricted tourism across all seven upazilas of the district.

The decision was confirmed through a public notice signed by Bandarban Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini on Thursday (June 6). The notice stated that, following a decision made at the District Law and Order Coordination Core Committee meeting on June 3, and based on a letter issued by the 69 Infantry Brigade, Bandarban Cantonment, on June 5, the travel restrictions have now been withdrawn from several key tourist routes.

These include the route from Thanchi to Tindu leading to Madak, and from Thanchi to Tamatungi via Baklai Para. In Ruma upazila, tourists are now allowed to travel from Ruma Bazar to Boga Lake, including Munlai.

With this update, there are no travel restrictions remaining in any of the seven upazilas of Bandarban, including the district sadar.

The travel ban in Ruma and Thanchi had been in place since March 16 of 2023, due to a joint anti-militancy operation in the remote border hill areas. The move was initially taken to ensure tourist safety. The reopening of these destinations after more than two years has been welcomed by local tourism businesses.

Speaking to the media, Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini said, “We invite people from all districts of the country to visit Bandarban. If the situation remains stable, we will gradually open other tourist spots for visitors after further review.”