Sohel Kanti Nath, Bandarban 

Several portions of the Suwalak–Lama road in Bandarban have collapsed due to continuous heavy rainfall over the past few days, putting local commuters at serious risk.

 Locals fear that if the road is not repaired promptly, the damage could worsen, potentially cutting off the route entirely. Heavy vehicle movement has already been suspended, and residents are currently relying on motorcycles and CNG auto-rickshaws for transport.

On-site visits to various points along the Suwalak–Lama road reveal that the combination of relentless rain and hilly runoff has severely eroded multiple sections of the road. This not only disrupts regular movement but also prevents the transportation of agricultural produce, affecting local farmers significantly. The road serves as an alternative internal route between Bandarban district town and Lama upazila and is used daily by motorcycles, CNGs, trucks, and other vehicles.

Although signs of erosion were evident since the start of the rainy season, lack of timely repair work has allowed the situation to deteriorate. A large section of the road has now collapsed, halting the passage of heavy vehicles. Motorcycles and three-wheelers continue to use the route, albeit at great risk.

One of the most hazardous stretches is near the Tonkaboti Union area, located 31 kilometers from the district town. Although the road was carpeted just three years ago, many sections have already crumbled. Each monsoon season, runoff water from the hills damages the road further, turning it into a death trap for regular commuters. No repair work has been done in nearly three years.

Locals report daily accidents and express fear while traveling over the damaged parts. Resident Tumpao Mro said, "The road is breaking apart due to heavy rains. If it is not repaired soon, the connection to the district headquarters may be completely lost."

Tonkaboti Union Parishad Chairman Mayang Mro stated that the road has been deteriorating since last year and despite reporting the issue to the LGED Executive Officer and the Sadar Upazila Office, no action was taken. “Now the rains have started again, and the road may collapse entirely at any moment,” he warned.

In response, LGED Executive Engineer Mohammad Tasaur said, “We have inspected the Suwalak–Lama road on site. Several segments have collapsed due to recent heavy rains. We've already sent a letter to the ministry requesting funding. Once the allocation is received, repairs will begin immediately.”

It is mentioned that the Suwalak–Lama road was constructed under the implementation of the Bandarban Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) during the fiscal year 2019–2020.