With schools and colleges closed for Durga Puja and Probarona Purnima, a 12-day holiday—running until October 9—has prompted thousands of holidaymakers to head to Cox’s Bazar, the country’s most popular tourist destination. Families, friends, and travelers from across Bangladesh have flocked to the coastal city to enjoy the long break.
Since Friday, the beaches at Kolatoli, Sugandha, Laboni, and Dariyanagar—as well as the hotel-motel zone in the city—have been teeming with visitors. The rush has also spread to nearby tourist spots such as Himchhari in Ramu, Inani in Ukhiya, and even Teknaf. Drawn by the sea waves, lush hills, and seafood delicacies, both domestic and foreign tourists are crowding the region.
Tourism businesses report that most hotels and motels are fully booked, with many late-arriving tourists struggling to find accommodation. Restaurants and food outlets are also facing heavy demand. While the influx has brought a welcome boost to the local economy, many visitors are experiencing difficulties due to traffic congestion, poor management, and rising prices of essentials.
To ensure tourist safety, the district administration, police, RAB, Tourist Police, and lifeguard teams are conducting special patrols across beaches and key locations. A special help desk has also been set up to prevent incidents of missing children.
Tourist Police Additional DIG Appel Mahmud said there are no security threats in the tourist areas, adding,
“Our teams are on high alert and working diligently to ensure the safety of all visitors.”
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
