The country’s most popular tourist city, Cox’s Bazar, is sweltering under an intense heatwave. Even as September draws close, the blazing sun shows no sign of relenting. Across the vast stretches of the world’s longest sea beach, the scorching midday heat has become a real challenge for tourists and locals.
Yet, the high temperatures have failed to slow down the rush of holidaymakers. Thousands of tourists from home and abroad continue to flock to the seaside to enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Bengal—but with added precautions.
Many tourists are taking creative measures to avoid the sun. Some wrap towels, scarves, or shawls around their heads while strolling along the beach, while others rely on hats and umbrellas.
Among these, wide-brimmed round hats have become the must-have accessory for visitors in Cox’s Bazar. Shops along the beach are stocked with hats of various colours and designs. Not only do these hats provide relief from the heat, but they also add a touch of fashionable flair.
Many visitors also apply sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Despite the discomfort of walking under the scorching sun, the magnetic allure of the sea waves continues to draw them in.
“It’s unbearably hot, but I couldn’t resist the temptation to see the beauty of the sea — so I came prepared,” said one tourist with a smile.
Local vendors, meanwhile, are delighted by the booming sales of hats, umbrellas, bottled water, and sunscreen — all of which have seen demand soar recently.
According to the Meteorological Department, the ongoing heatwave will likely persist for several days. Officials have advised tourists to take necessary precautions while enjoying the beach.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Hussain Shetu
