Unfit open-top jeeps, locally known as "Chander Gari," continue to operate freely on the hilly roads of Khagrachhari, disregarding government regulations and posing significant risks to passengers. Reckless driving by unskilled drivers often leads to accidents, especially on the route to the popular Sajek Valley tourist destination, reports UNB.
Most of these jeeps lack licenses, fitness certificates, or road permits. Over the past month and a half, accidents involving these vehicles have resulted in at least five fatalities and over 50 injuries. Despite this, approximately 3,000 such jeeps continue to operate across Khagrachhari's tourist spots and inter-district roads.
Local transport syndicates control the operation of these unfit vehicles, setting fares for tourists through the Jeep Owners’ Association. Many travelers have voiced frustration over the lack of regulatory oversight, citing unchecked irregularities in the system.
Although Sajek Valley's Ruilui and Konglak tourist spots fall under Rangamati district, the most accessible road runs through Khagrachhari, where a syndicate has monopolized transportation, forming an association to control the route. As a result, tourists find themselves captive to the vehicle syndicate, facing inflated fares and subpar service.
Many of these jeeps are old, refurbished vehicles bought at government auctions, often patched together with makeshift repairs, making travel dangerous. Passengers report mechanical failures, excessive fares set by association-designated linemen, and poorly maintained vehicles, some held together with ropes or wires.
The Khagrachhari-Dighinala-Sajek road, known for its sharp turns and narrow stretches, is particularly hazardous due to reckless driving and a lack of awareness among transport operators. Locals say these jeeps, some dating back to the 1948-49 model years, were originally brought to the Chittagong Hill Tracts by the British for cargo transport before being repurposed to carry agricultural goods. Over time, refurbished versions of these vehicles have been introduced, including those obtained through government auctions.
Despite their lack of fitness certification and the use of untrained drivers, "Chander Gari" remains popular among tourists due to its open-air design. However, Md Kawsar Alam, assistant director of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) in Khagrachhari, stated that these locally assembled vehicles do not qualify for registration or fitness certification under BRTA regulations. He acknowledged that the lack of technical approval and the presence of unskilled drivers contribute to frequent accidents.
Meanwhile, Abdul Azim, president of the Khagrachhari Jeep Owners’ Association, claimed that the vehicles meet necessary standards, but enforcement authorities have failed to take action.
Concerned citizens, tourists, and residents have called for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure passenger safety and bring these dangerous vehicles under control.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
