The government has directed that the expansion of the Cox’s Bazar Marine Drive be carried out without cutting trees, prioritising environmental protection alongside infrastructure development.
The instruction has been issued under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, and is being implemented by the Road Transport and Bridges Ministry.
Officials said the decision has ensured the preservation of nearly 3,000 trees along the project corridor, making it a significant example of balancing development with environmental conservation.
Following the directive, senior government officials visited the project site on April 21, including the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, the Prime Minister’s defence adviser, and the State Minister for Railways, along with project engineers and stakeholders.
The 80-kilometre road stretching from Kolatoli to Sabrang Zero Point in Teknaf is being upgraded to a four-lane highway.
Initial project plans had proposed large-scale tree removal, but the design was revised after the prime minister’s intervention to avoid environmental damage.
Officials said the revised plan reflects lessons from past infrastructure projects where tree cutting led to ecological concerns. The current approach prioritises green preservation while continuing road expansion.
The project is being implemented under the supervision of engineering units of the Bangladesh Army. Key components include road widening, a 305-metre bridge over the Rezu canal, RCC retaining walls, CC block installation, and utility relocation works.
The project is expected to be completed by 2026.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
