Rangamati hanging bridge reopens after days

The iconic hanging bridge, known as the ‘symbol of Rangamati’, reopened to tourists and local visitors on Saturday after remaining submerged in Kaptai Lake for seven days.

The bridge was opened to visitors at noon after the water receded completely from its deck, said Alok Bikash Chakma, manager of Rangamati Tourism Holiday Complex.

The bridge was submerged on August 29 as the water level in Kaptai Lake rose following heavy rain and water flowing downstream from upstream areas.

Although the water level had almost receded from the bridge deck on Friday, some tourists were seen crossing the bridge despite restrictions, according to local sources.

The bridge’s deck becomes submerged when the water level in Kaptai Lake rises above 105 feet above mean sea level (MSL), while the lake’s maximum holding level is 109 feet MSL.

According to data from the Kaptai-based Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station, the lake’s water level stood at 105.18 feet MSL at 1pm on Saturday.

The bridge could become submerged again if heavy rain causes the lake’s water level to rise further.

“We opened the bridge to visitors from noon after the water had completely receded in the morning. Tourists can now visit the bridge by purchasing tickets,” Alok Bikash Chakma said.