Cox’s Bazar, the country’s top tourist destination, is bustling as the five-day Durga Puja holiday ends on Saturday. The sandy beach, coastal pine groves, and other tourist attractions have drawn large crowds, with families and friends spending time together, enjoying the waves, and taking photos and videos.
Tourist numbers at Laboni, Sugandha, and Kolatali points began rising on Friday morning, October 23, and continued to grow throughout the day. Tourist attractions and entertainment centres across the town also saw a notable influx of people.
People from across the country travelled to Cox’s Bazar to enjoy the extended break, which combined Durga Puja and weekly holidays. Many came with family or friends to enjoy the sea, the sound of the waves, and the sunset before returning home.
The influx has also increased activity among tourism-related businesses. Hotels, motels, restaurants, beach-bike operators, photographers and other service providers have been busy catering to tourists, bringing renewed activity to the town’s tourism-dependent economy.
Abul Kashem Sikder, president of the Hotel Motel Guest House Owners Association, reported that tourists had packed Cox’s Bazar during the extended holiday. Around 20 star-rated hotels were fully occupied, while 80–90 per cent of rooms at other hotels, motels and guesthouses were booked in advance, he said.
Beach safety remains a key concern as tourists continue to visit the shore during the final days of the holiday. Visitors have been urged to exercise caution while swimming, avoid dangerous areas marked with red flags and follow lifeguards’ instructions.
Mohammad Shukkur, a senior lifeguard, said lifeguards worked continuously from morning until sunset throughout the holiday period. Swimming is permitted at Kolatali, Sugandha and Laboni points during those hours, but he said entering the sea at night is not allowed.
Tourism sector workers expect many tourists to return home as the holiday ends, although crowds are likely to remain at the beach through Saturday. The strong turnout during the final days of the break has raised hopes among local tourism businesses.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdur Rashid Manik
