COX'S BAZAR, May 9, 2026 (BSS) - A new chapter has begun in the administrative history of Matamuhuri as the government has officially approved the formation of a new upazila named "Matamuhuri," raising hopes of rapid economic growth and improved public services for local residents.

The decision received final approval at the 120th meeting of the National Implementation Committee on Administrative Reorganization (NICAR), held at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Thursday [May 7]. 

The new upazila is being formed by dividing a large portion of Chakaria upazila.

The newly-formed upazila will include the Unions of Badarkhali, West Bara Bheola, East Bara Bheola, Saharbil, BM Char, Konakhali and Dhemushia.

Residents of the river-bound region have long demanded a separate upazila due to geographical distance, population growth and difficulties in accessing administrative services. 

The approval of Matamuhuri upazila has therefore been welcomed with widespread celebration across the area.

Local people believe the establishment of the new upazila will significantly improve healthcare, education, communication and trade while accelerating infrastructural development.

During an election rally at Jamila Begum High School grounds in Ilisia on February 7, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed pledged to fulfill the long-standing demand for the upazila.

"The implementation of Matamuhuri upazila is a long-standing demand of the people in this region and, Insha Allah, it will be realized," he said.

Addressing the public meeting, Salahuddin Ahmed assured residents that all major government services would be made available locally, including the upazila office, hospital, livestock office, registry office and land office. 

He added that the location of the upazila headquarters would be finalized through consultation with local residents.

Locals said the approval marks a major political and administrative achievement. Md. Arif, a resident of Ilisia, said the people had dreamed for years of seeing Matamuhuri become an upazila.

"Now if it becomes fully functional, people will receive many benefits. medical facilities, offices and courts will all be nearby," he said.

Rashid Ahmed of Badarkhali said the large size of Chakaria upazila had long created difficulties for residents living in distant areas.

"If there is a new upazila, development in this region will move faster," he added.

Political leaders and civil society representatives also expressed optimism over the decision.

Cox's Bazar District BNP Office Secretary Yusuf Badri said around 250,000 people in the seven-union region had long suffered from various forms of deprivation.

"With the implementation of the new upazila, new allocations and development plans will come for education, healthcare, roads, bridges and culverts," he said, adding that residents would soon begin to enjoy the benefits of improved public services.

Meanwhile, Cox's Bazar Press Club President Mahbubur Rahman described the decision as a gateway to new possibilities for the people of the region.

He said locals now expect the government to quickly launch administrative activities and ensure that the benefits of development reach ordinary citizens without delay.

Although the administrative recognition has now been granted, residents are waiting to see how quickly the new upazila's offices and services become operational. Many believe that the establishment of Matamuhuri upazila could transform the economy and overall lifestyle of the entire region.