Shipping Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain has said that the situation in the hill areas must be addressed with government support through discussions, after identifying the root causes.

“Bandarban is an area of peace and harmony. The sudden surge in terrorist activities here has caused distress among everyone,” he told reporters after visiting a Buddhist orphanage in Bandarban town on Friday.

Highlighting the importance of involving experienced individuals to restore peace and harmony in the region, the adviser said, “It’s time for everyone to come together and solve the issue.”

The adviser also mentioned that the government is considering establishing a land port at Ghumdhum in Teknaf to enhance trade with Myanmar.

After the programme, the adviser planted trees at the Buddhist orphanage.

Army’s Bandarban Region Commander Brigadier General Rakib Ibne Rezwan, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Labor ASM Ashraful Islam, Zilla Parishad Chairman Professor Thanjama Lusai, Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini, and Superintendent of Police Md. Shahidullah Kawsar were also present.