More than 150 Eid holidaymakers, including women and children, became stranded on Char Abdullah in the Meghna River under Ramgati Upazila on Friday afternoon following a sudden storm.
As of 11:30 pm on Friday, adverse weather conditions and low tide continued to delay their rescue, officials said. A police team has already reached the remote river island (char) to ensure the safety of the travelers.
Local sources said the Meghna River embankment at Char Alexander, popularly dubbed "Mini Cox’s Bazar," draws large crowds from Laxmipur and neighbouring districts during Eid celebrations. On Friday afternoon, the tourists hired several engine-run trawlers from the embankment to visit the nearby Char Abdullah.
However, the weather took a sudden turn, bringing heavy rain and violent winds that turned the Meghna River treacherous. The tourists were forced to take shelter on the island as river conditions deteriorated rapidly.
Ramgati Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Liton Dewan confirmed the situation late Friday night.
"Over 150 tourists are currently stranded on the char. Our team is on-site providing security and assistance. Because of the low tide, the rescue vessels cannot navigate the shallow channels right now. We are waiting for the high tide to safely bring everyone back to the mainland," the OC said.
