From Kolatoli to Laboni Point in Cox’s Bazar, the scene is nothing short of extraordinary – a sea of people stretches as far as the eye can see. The beaches, thronged by tourists, have left no room to spare as the holiday season takes full swing.
Over 500 hotels, motels, and guest houses in Cox’s Bazar are reporting 100% occupancy, with all rooms booked well in advance. The surge in visitors was evident on Friday, 20 December, as Kolatoli, Sugandha, and Laboni Points bustled with activity, driven by the weekend break and the holiday season.
The tourist influx is attributed to the overlap of the peak tourism season with the conclusion of annual examinations in schools and colleges.
Many families have taken the opportunity to travel, preferring Cox’s Bazar over the hill tracts for its perceived safety.
Additionally, the ongoing suspension of tourist visas to neighbouring India has redirected many travel enthusiasts to Cox’s Bazar, further adding to the pressure on the city’s infrastructure.
A visitor from Dhaka’s Bangla Motor area, Sadeq Ahmed, shared, "We came for a family trip during the weekend since the children’s schools are closed. Spending time together on the beach has been incredibly enjoyable."
Saied Sami, a tourist from Rajshahi, echoed the sentiment, saying, "Cox’s Bazar never gets old. I visit every time I have a break. December, however, sees an overwhelming crowd – walking along the beach is almost impossible. Despite the congestion, the experience remains delightful."
Challenges for Security Forces
The overwhelming number of tourists has posed significant challenges for the life guards, tourist police, beach workers, and other security personnel responsible for ensuring safety on the beach.
Despite the difficulties, they are actively working to prevent untoward incidents.
Mohammad Osman, a senior life guard with the Sea Safe Lifeguard service, remarked, "Every December, and particularly on weekends, we face a surge in visitors. This year, the influx has been extraordinary.
Tourists are bathing indiscriminately, but we urge them to stay within the red-and-yellow flagged areas and follow the life guards’ instructions to avoid accidents."
The tourist police have also intensified their efforts to maintain order.
Senior Assistant Superintendent of Police Abul Kalam, spokesperson for the Cox’s Bazar tourist police region, stated, "We have ramped up our security measures for the tourist season. There will be no lapses in security. Our goal is to ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Tourists are also advised to follow environmental guidelines for movement along the beach, as recommended by the Ministry of Environment."
As Cox’s Bazar continues to brim with visitors, the city remains a testament to the enduring allure of the world’s longest sea beach, drawing tourists from across the nation during the holiday season.
