Photo: BSS

RANGAMATI, Sept 5, 2026 (BSS) - The ban on tourist entry to Rangamati's iconic Hanging Bridge (Jhulanto Bridge) has been lifted as the water level of Kaptai Lake receded and water moved off the bridge deck.

Tourists have been allowed to enter the bridge since Saturday morning, said Alok Bikash Chakma, manager of Rangamati Tourism Holiday Complex.

He said the water level of Kaptai Lake has fallen to some extent, causing the water to recede from the bridge deck. "We cleaned and polished the bridge from Friday and made it ready for tourists," he added.

The authorities lifted the restriction from this morning, allowing tourists to once again enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hanging Bridge, he said.

Earlier, the authorities had imposed the restriction on tourist entry to the bridge after the rising water level of Kaptai Lake submerged up to one foot of the bridge deck last Saturday, citing safety concerns.

The water level of the lake gradually declined after 16 sluice gates of the Kaptai Dam were opened to release water. Six days later, on Friday, the water receded from the bridge deck, making the bridge visible again.

Although repair, cleaning and maintenance work was underway, many curious tourists had already been seen getting onto the bridge.

Mohammad Fakhrul Islam, lessee of the Rangamati tourist boat ghat, and other local tourism-related businesses told BSS that the Hanging Bridge is one of the major attractions for tourists visiting Rangamati.

They expressed hope that the reopening of the bridge would further boost the number of tourists visiting the district.