Cox's Bazar bustling with massive tourist flow

COX'S BAZAR, Dec 24: Ahead of the upcoming Christmas on December 25 and the New Year's Eve celebrations, a massive influx of tourists has been witnessed in Cox's Bazar, home to the world's longest natural sea beach.

With the onset of winter, consecutive holidays and favourable weather conditions, hundreds of thousands of visitors from different parts of the country are flocking to the premier tourist destination every day. The surge in tourist flow has restored the city's ever-familiar vibrancy and festive atmosphere. From morning until late at night, large crowds are being seen at popular spots including Laboni Point, Sugandha Point, Kolatoli, Shaibal Point, Inani, Patuartek and Himchhari.

While some visitors are enjoying the waves of the Bay of Bengal, others are strolling along the beach with family members or remaining busy capturing memorable moments on camera. In the evening, the beach areas become vibrant with lights and joyful activities, creating a lively and enchanting ambience. The growing number of visitors has significantly increased activities in hotels, motels, resorts and guest houses. Most standard hotels are almost fully booked, and many tourists are finding it difficult to secure desired accommodation without prior reservations, according to hotel authorities.

Gias Uddin, a tourist from Dhaka, said, "I came to Cox's Bazar to get some relief from the hectic city life. Being here truly brings mental peace."

Another tourist, Toufik Sheikh from Chattogram, said, "With the sea, hills and open natural environment, Cox's Bazar is an ideal travel destination for people of all ages." As the number of tourists rises, the administration has strengthened security measures across the city.

Tourist Police officials said that additional police personnel have been deployed in beach areas, hotel zones and other important locations. Along with regular patrols, round-the-clock monitoring is being ensured to provide a safe and secure travel experience for visitors. Tourists have also been urged to follow safety guidelines while entering the beach area. Speaking about the security arrangements, Additional Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Cox's Bazar Range, Apel Mahmud, said, "The police are on the highest level of alert to ensure the overall safety and security of tourists visiting Cox's Bazar. Additional police personnel have been deployed at beach points, hotel zones, tourist spots and in other key areas. If any tourist faces harassment, we request them to inform the police immediately."

He further added, "To uphold the reputation of this tourist city and maintain law and order, we are following a zero-tolerance policy. Our primary goal is to ensure that tourists can enjoy their time here safely and without worry."

Meanwhile, President of the Cox's Bazar Hotel, Motel and Guest House Owners' Association, Abul Kashem Sikder, said, "The number of tourists has been very encouraging from the beginning of this winter season. Hotels of almost all categories are experiencing good bookings. After a long time, the tourism sector is regaining momentum."

He added, "We are fully prepared to provide quality services to tourists. Hotel owners have been instructed not to charge any extra money beyond the fixed rates. If any tourist faces inconvenience, the association will take immediate action."

Business operators related to tourism said the influx of visitors has revitalised restaurants, shopping malls, souvenir shops, transport services and entertainment businesses. As a result, the local economy is becoming more dynamic, helping sustain employment for many people. However, with the increasing pressure of tourists, concerns have also been raised over traffic congestion, overcrowding and environmental pollution. Conscious citizens believe that coordinated efforts by tourists, business owners and the administration are essential to protect the natural beauty and environment of Cox's Bazar.

Overall, with the overwhelming presence of tourists, Cox's Bazar has once again emerged as one of the country's top recreational destinations. The blue sea, sandy beaches and cheerful crowds have breathed new life into this iconic tourist city.

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