Madhabkunda now less attractive to tourists

Madhabkunda waterfall, a most favourite destination for the tourists especially during the Eid holidays, has become risky and less attractive due to various reasons.

Tourists are no longer allowed at the main spot of the waterfall in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar as cracks developed following landslides on May 17 and 18 and June 14 this year.

Lack of renovation of the roads and steps to the waterfall adds to the risk for the visitors.

The tourist spot is also losing natural beauty due to negligence of the authorities concerned.

In 2001, an eco-park was established in a 500-acres area with a view to conserving biodiversity in the area around the waterfall.

The park is adorned with segun, garjan, chapalish and many other species of trees as well as wildlife and there are many hillocks around.

Forest department took the responsibility from the beginning to maintain the beauty of the park while Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation has set up picnic spots, restaurants and parking facilities near it.

During a visit to the area a few days ago, it was found that the park has lost much of its greenery. The benches, where the tourists sit for relax, are covered with dirty things. Many electric lights are lying inoperative.

The number of tourists has decreased recently, said Saidul Ahmed, a security guard of Madhabkunda waterfall.

"We have come here to enjoy natural beauty, but we feel scared after hearing about long cracks that appeared at the hill of the waterfall," said Monirul Islam, 35, a visitor from Dhaka.

"I am upset to see the mismanagement here," said Shamsuddoha, a student coming from Chittagong.

Md Kamrul Mujahid, range officer (additional) of Barlekha range office, said, "I have sent letters to the leaseholders to keep the park clean along with their other works." "They have violated the terms of agreement," he added.

A monitoring cell should be formed to keep the park clean, said ASM Abdullah Mamun, upazila nirbahi officer of Barlekha.