Tourists continue to flock to Cox’s Bazar beach late into the night to enjoy the sound of waves and the calm atmosphere after the daytime crowds thin out.
After sunset, Laboni, Sugandha, and Kalatali points still attract tourists after sunset, while shops and night markets in these areas remain open.
However, the growing number of visitors at the beach at night has raised safety concerns. Tourists have called for stronger security, particularly in dark, isolated areas, amid fears of theft, snatching, and other untoward incidents. Allegations of theft have also emerged in recent incidents.
Tourist Junaed Chowdhury, who visited the beach at night, said the sea offered a different experience after dark.
“The atmosphere is quieter at night, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the sea. But security needs to be strengthened so that tourists can move around without concern,” he said.
Another tourist, Tahmina, said authorities should pay more attention to women visitors’ safety.
“Security should be strengthened not only at the beach but throughout the town so that women can move around without fear,” she said.
Mahbubur Rahman, a supervisor of beach workers on duty, said tourist police and beach workers were working together to ensure visitors’ safety.
He advised tourists to avoid dark casuarina groves and secluded places at night.
He also noted that beaches away from the main tourist area, including Inani, Himchari and Patuartek along Marine Drive, were popular destinations because of their natural beauty.
However, he noted that these areas may have limited lighting, crowds, and access to immediate assistance at night.
Visitors have therefore been advised to avoid travelling to isolated beaches late at night unless necessary. They should avoid travelling alone, taking unfamiliar routes, and stopping for long periods in deserted places. Those who need to travel should go in groups and inform family members of their whereabouts.
Mohammad Khairul Alam, additional deputy inspector general in charge of Cox’s Bazar Tourist Police, said patrols were intensified at Laboni, Sugandha and Kalatali points at night to ensure tourists’ safety.
“Police take prompt action whenever incidents, big or small, occur so that tourists can move around comfortably,” he said.
He added that the upcoming holidays would see increased activity from tourist police and other law enforcement agencies.
As Cox’s Bazar’s night-time attractions continue to draw visitors, tourism stakeholders have stressed the need for regular patrols, closer monitoring of dark areas and special attention to the safety of women tourists.
They said stronger security measures would help visitors enjoy the beach at night with greater confidence.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
