Ashfaq Ahmed, Barlekha-Juri Correspondent: Madhabkunda Waterfall, the largest natural waterfall in the country, located in Barlekha Upazila of Moulvibazar district, has been a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists for decades. The region’s picturesque charm—undulating hills, lush tea gardens, Khasi betel-leaf plantations, diverse lifestyles of the hill tribes, and traditional jhum cultivation—creates an alluring natural tapestry. However, hidden behind this beauty lies a grim reality: the risk of fatal accidents.
According to recent statistics provided by former Range Officer Shekhar Ranjan Das, at least 32 tourists have lost their lives at Madhabkunda Waterfall over the past 43 years. Some slipped from the summit, while others drowned in the deep waters while swimming under the falls. Most of these incidents occurred due to a lack of awareness among tourists and inadequate safety measures.
Recent social media videos show several youths climbing nearly 200 feet to the summit of the waterfall to capture photos and videos. Some pose precariously for selfies, while others create TikToks or Reels. Most of these individuals are teenagers or young adults from colleges and universities. Evading the watchful eyes of authorities, they ascend through hidden paths, many of which are beyond the oversight of the tourist police.
A tourist visiting Madhabkunda on Saturday morning remarked, “This place is incredibly beautiful, but some people climb the dangerous peaks for photos and videos, which is absolutely wrong. We want the authorities to be stricter in this regard.”
A female tourist from Dhaka shared, “Safety comes first when traveling. We are here to enjoy nature, not to risk our lives for pictures or adventure. Everyone should be more aware.”
Madhabkunda Tourist Police Officer-in-Charge Mohsin Ahmed stated, “We conduct regular patrols and advise tourists to stay in safe areas.” Addressing the issue of climbing the dangerous peaks, he said, “No one can climb up avoiding police observation. Those who try are being warned. However, tourists themselves need to be more cautious.”
Madhab Chhara Beat Officer Sohel Rana added, “During Eid and other festivals, thousands of tourists visit Madhabkunda Waterfall. Some tourists climb the hazardous spots near the falls, which has come to our attention. We have brought many down from such places and made them aware of the risks to prevent future incidents. While we can control access from the main areas, some manage to ascend through nearby hidden paths that remain beyond administrative oversight.”
An on-site inspection revealed that while ropes are used to demarcate dangerous zones at the main site, tourists often disregard these boundaries. Many were seen swimming in risky areas. Locals suggested that sealing off the climbing paths entirely could significantly reduce these hazards.
Madhabkunda Waterfall is undoubtedly a gem of natural beauty. However, tourist negligence is turning it into a death trap. To mitigate the risk, appropriate measures, including strict monitoring, are essential. Otherwise, this natural wonder may become synonymous with danger for visitors.
