Cox’s Bazar sea beach is crowded with tourists during the five-day Durga Puja holiday, with heavy crowds at Kolatali, Laboni and Sugandha points. While some tourists stroll along the beach and take photographs, others are bathing in the sea. However, red flags remain in place despite relatively stable weather, as lifeguards urge tourists to exercise caution before entering the water.
Although no warning signal is in force at the maritime port, authorities have advised tourists to assess wave and current conditions before swimming. They have warned that entering the sea outside designated bathing zones increases the risk of accidents.
According to the weather forecast, Cox’s Bazar may experience partly cloudy to overcast skies on Friday, October 23. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain around 30 degrees Celsius. The chance of rain is relatively low, but tourists have been advised to remain alert to changing weather conditions.
The highest concentration of tourists has been observed at Kolatali, Laboni and Sugandha points. Many are keen to bathe in the sea during the holidays, but Sea Safe lifeguards have urged them to remain within designated swimming areas under lifeguard supervision.
Lifeguards said red-and-yellow and red flags mark different points along the beach to indicate safe bathing zones and hazardous conditions. Ignoring these signals can be dangerous, as underwater holes, channels and strong currents can cause accidents.
Mohammad Osman Gani, supervisor and senior lifeguard at Sea Safe, said tourists should remain cautious given sea conditions. He urged them to exercise particular care when red flags are displayed, follow lifeguards’ instructions, and swim only in designated areas.
According to Friday’s tide forecast, low tide is expected at around 2:06 am, followed by high tide at 8:08 am. Another low tide is forecast for 2:19 pm, with high tide expected at 8:34 pm. Timing may vary slightly by location.
Concerned authorities said the absence of a warning signal at the maritime port does not necessarily mean the beach is entirely safe for swimming.
With tourist numbers rising during the Durga Puja holidays, they have called for extra caution, urging tourists to follow flag signals and lifeguards’ instructions and keep children under close supervision.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdur Rashid Manik
