The widening work of the scenic Cox’s Bazar–Teknaf Marine Drive is nearing completion, offering new hope for the tourism sector. Once the development is finished within this year, the country’s longest marine drive is expected to provide a safer and more comfortable travel experience for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Stretching about 82 kilometres from Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach through Himchari National Park, Inani, and Teknaf, the road offers breathtaking views of hills on one side and the vast blue sea on the other. With the widening work now visible, tourists and locals have already begun to enjoy its benefits.
According to project sources, in the first phase, about 30.4 kilometres of roads from Kolatoli in Cox’s Bazar town to Patuartek in Ukhiya are being widened at a cost of approximately Tk 12 billion. Of the total, around Tk 4 billion is allocated for land acquisition, while the remaining Tk 8 billion is being spent on constructing bridges, including the Reju Khal bridge, and strengthening coastal protection measures.
Officials from the Roads and Highways Department said the road, previously 18 feet wide, is being expanded to 34 feet. The project includes land acquisition, earth filling, pavement development, retaining wall construction, geotextile block installation, tetrapod construction, CCTV camera installation, and modern drainage system development. A 305-meter-long two-lane bridge is also being constructed over the Reju Khal.
A visit to the area shows that work is progressing rapidly, with the first phase nearing completion. Vehicle movement has already become easier on the widened sections.
Locals and stakeholders believe the project will significantly boost tourism and contribute to the area’s socio-economic development.
Tourist jeep driver Md Abdullah said, “Driving used to be risky due to the narrow road. Now it is much more comfortable, and more tourists are visiting.”
Local resident Abdur Rahim said the improved road has enhanced connectivity and is expected to boost business activities.
Tourist Suma Alam said, “The beauty of Marine Drive was always there, but now the improved road has made the journey more comfortable and enjoyable.”
The project was approved at an ECNEC meeting on June 28, 2022, and is expected to be completed by 2026. Officials hope the fully upgraded road will ensure safer connectivity and further strengthen the country’s tourism sector.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
