4-Day Travel Ban Issued for Mirinja Tourist Center Ahead of Elections

Authorities in Lama have announced a four-day travel ban for all tourists visiting the Mirinja mountain resorts and cottages to ensure security during the upcoming 13th National Parliament Election.

The restriction will be in effect from February 10 to February 13. The decision, aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing potential election-related unrest, was finalized during a "core committee" meeting at the Lama Upazila Parishad on Thursday.

The meeting was presided over by Lt. Col. Ashiqur Rahman, PSC, Alikadam Army Zone Commander. Officials in attendance included Lama Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Md. Moin Uddin, Alikadam UNO Manjur Alam, and the Officers-in-Charge of both Lama and Alikadam police stations.

Officials emphasized that the ban is necessary to monitor the movement of outsiders in the hill district during the election period. Security surveillance has been increased throughout the upazila, and authorities warned that any attempts to disrupt the peace would be met with zero tolerance.

Mirinja is one of Bandarban's most popular destinations, drawing domestic and international visitors for its high-altitude views of clouds and fog. While the ban will temporarily disrupt travel plans, local community leaders have largely welcomed the move as a necessary public interest measure for a smooth electoral process.