Marine waste has once again marred the picturesque Cox’s Bazar beach as tidal waters brought in a disturbing array of debris early Monday morning. Stretching over at least 12 kilometers, the waste extended from Kalatali Beach to Kavita Chattar.
At Kalatali Point, the beach was littered with a variety of items, including torn fishing nets, plastic ropes, bottles, sandals, bags, dry vines, pieces of wood, and remnants of dead marine animals. The accumulation of these materials is not only harming the environment but is also creating obstacles for tourists trying to enjoy their beachside strolls.
Mahbub, a beach worker assigned by the district administration, reported that the morning tides had brought in not just the waste but also sandalwood, seagulls, and algae. Additionally, small tree fragments, bamboo roots, and burnt wood were visible among the debris.
A worker with Sea LifeGuard, responsible for ensuring tourist safety, noted that the waste continues to wash up with each tidal wave, posing a growing risk for beachgoers. “The waste arrives with the tides from dawn, and more continues to come in,” hea said, adding that the situation increases the risk for tourists, particularly those bathing in the sea. Moreover, the lack of proper waste management also has negative impacts on Bangladesh internationally, because Cox’s Bazar is an internationally acclaimed tourist spot.
Efforts to address the waste issue are ongoing, but the recurrence of such problems highlights the need for more effective measures to manage marine pollution and protect the pristine environment of Cox’s Bazar.
