Myanmar conflict prompts closure of five border schools in Bangladesh

BANDARBAN CORRESPONDENT

Amidst escalating tensions in Myanmar, authorities in Bangladesh have announced a temporary closure of five government primary schools along the Naikhongchhari Ghumdhum border in Bandarban.

This measure comes in response to intensifying clashes between Myanmar’s military forces and rebel groups, which have instilled fear among local border residents.

District Administrator Shah Moazzem Uddin confirmed the closures, stating they were a precautionary move for safety, following a proposal from Naikhongchhari’s Primary Education Officer, Triratan Chakma.

The schools affected include Baishpari, Bhajabunia, Tumbru, Tumbru Pashchimkul, and South Ghumdhum Government Primary Schools, he said.

Eyewitness accounts describe heavy gunfire exchanges and aerial bombardments between Myanmar’s military and rebel forces near the Myanmar-Naikhongchhari border.

In recent days, over fifty mortar shells have detonated near the Myanmar border fence, causing tremors in areas around the 47th and 48th border pillars inside Bangladesh, they added.

Jahangir Aziz, chairman of Ghumdhum Union Parishad, said, “We heard mortar shell explosions on Monday morning. There have been no casualties, but the ongoing conflict is causing widespread fear among local residents.”

Union Parishad member Dil Mohammad Bhutto said, “We are all living in fear on this side of the border. We are uncertain about what might happen at any moment.”

He advised against unnecessary outdoor activities.

Major General AKM Nazmul Hasan, director general of Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB), said, “The conflict in Myanmar is severe and has spilled over into the Rakhine State, affecting the Bangladesh-Myanmar border.

“We have instructed our members to remain highly vigilant and to patrol the border areas to manage any developments.”