After years of struggling with poorly lit stretches, Cox’s Bazar sea beach is set to shine again — this time with high-powered halogen lights aimed at curbing theft, mugging, and eve-teasing while ensuring greater safety for tourists.
The installation work began on Saturday (November 8) and is currently underway. On the first day, eight halogen lights were installed. According to Executive Magistrate Md. Azim Khan of the Tourism Cell, all existing poles along the beach will gradually be fitted with new lights.
A visit to the site revealed that six lights have already been installed from the southern end of Laboni Point to Jhaubagan, under the supervision of Beach Workers’ Supervisor Mahbub Alam. “We started the work on Saturday. In the first phase, we’re focusing on the Laboni and Seagull Points. The next phase will cover the stretch from the Diabetes Point to Kolatoli,” he said.
Electrician Nurul Absar, who is part of the installation team, noted, “Earlier, the connections between poles were broken, and rainwater often damaged the wires and holders. This time, we’re installing four 700-watt and two 400-watt halogen lamps with upgraded wiring.”
Records show that in 2017, the Beach Management Committee had installed 119 street lights from Diabetes Point to Kolatoli at a cost of around Tk 1.5 million. However, 78 of those lights became completely dysfunctional over the years.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Md. Shahidul Alam said, “The new halogen lights are of higher quality and resistant to rust. They’re as powerful as those used on ships. Initially, 20 will be installed, followed by replacements on the remaining poles. The wiring, holders, and iron parts are all being renewed.”
Additional DIG of Tourist Police Md. Apple Mahmud added, “Even in the dark, our officers have always remained vigilant. Currently, 33 CCTV cameras—27 of which are located along the beach—play a vital role in crime prevention. These new lights will greatly enhance the nighttime beauty and security of Cox’s Bazar beach.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
