Sylhet, June 22 -- Hundreds of shops at Jaflong Zero Point, one of Sylhet's most popular tourist destinations, were destroyed after a sudden surge in the Piain River's water level triggered a flash flood overnight, leaving traders counting heavy losses.

Affected traders said heavy rainfall in the Indian state of Meghalaya on Saturday night caused the river's water level to rise sharply, inundating the Jaflong Zero Point area.

The powerful current swept away hundreds of shops and their goods, catching traders off guard. Many had already closed their businesses and returned home, while some were sleeping inside their shops when the flood struck.

Traders said they had little time to move their belongings as the water rose rapidly. While a...