Tourist numbers fell noticeably at Cox’s Bazar beach on Wednesday after the Bangladesh Meteorological Department issued Local Cautionary Signal No 3 for the country’s seaports following the formation of a low-pressure area over the northwestern Bay of Bengal.
A visit to the Kolatoli, Sugandha and Laboni points in the afternoon found significantly fewer tourists than on recent days. Red warning flags were flying across the beach as lifeguards urged visitors to stay out of the sea.
Md Abdul Hannan, assistant meteorologist at the Cox’s Bazar Meteorological Office, said a low-pressure area had formed over the northwestern Bay of Bengal and the adjoining north Odisha-West Bengal coast, increasing the likelihood of squally weather over the northern Bay, coastal areas and the seaports.
He said Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra seaports had been advised to keep Local Cautionary Signal No 3 hoisted. Fishing boats and trawlers operating in the northern Bay have also been advised to remain close to the coast and navigate with extreme caution.
Following the warning, lifeguards hoisted red flags at all major beach points and advised tourists not to enter the sea.
“We have raised red flags across the beach following the issuance of Local Cautionary Signal No 3. Tourists are being requested not to venture into deep water for their safety,” said lifeguard Md Osman.
Although the warning reduced tourist turnout, those who did visit were seen walking along the shoreline and enjoying the beach from a safe distance. Lifeguards continued to broadcast safety announcements and warn visitors through loudspeakers while maintaining constant vigilance along the beach.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
