During the holy month of Ramadan, Cox’s Bazar remains almost devoid of tourists. The vast stretch of the beach, usually bustling with visitors, now feels empty. Amid this quietness, the stray dogs roaming the shoreline face a food crisis. These animals typically survive on leftovers discarded by tourists, but with the tourist flow at a standstill, they are now struggling to find food.

A visit to three key points of Cox’s Bazar beach on Tuesday revealed the stark reality—without tourists, the city’s tourism hub appears deserted. The loyal beach dogs seem to be waiting in vain for visitors to return.

Animal welfare organizations have urged local authorities and residents to provide food for the stray dogs. With most hotels, motels, and restaurants closed during Ramadan, they emphasize that government intervention and community support are essential to prevent these animals from suffering due to the food shortage.

By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Polash Shikdar