Cox's Bazar continues to cement its reputation as the premier destination for year-end holidays, with thousands of tourists flooding the beach town to witness the final sunset of 2024 and welcome the new year.
Although public celebrations on 31 December have been prohibited since the Rohingya crisis in 2017, the appeal of the beach remains undiminished, drawing ever-increasing crowds.
The beaches and other attractions in Cox's Bazar are bustling with activity as local authorities implement stringent security measures, including checkpoints at key intersections, to ensure public safety.
"Open-air events on the beach are not allowed due to concerns over law and order. This decision was finalised in a district administration meeting on 24 December. However, tourists are permitted to stay on the beach until midnight to celebrate in their own way," said Cox's Bazar District Administration Tourism Cell Executive Magistrate Tanveer Hossain.
Mobile court teams led by executive magistrates are being deployed across the town to manage security and traffic congestion effectively.
While public events are absent, several hotels have been authorised to host private, vibrant celebrations for their guests.
"Over 500 establishments, including hotels, resorts, guest houses, and cottages, are fully booked. These accommodations, which typically house up to 1.4 lakh guests daily, are now hosting beyond capacity, with 5-7 people often sharing a single room. This trend is expected to persist until 31 December," Cox's Bazar Hotel Guest House Owners Association President Abul Kashem Sikdar said.
The surge in tourist numbers began around mid December, coinciding with the conclusion of school examinations, he noted.
However, some tourists have expressed dissatisfaction with rising accommodation costs.
Many said that room rates have surged by at least 25% compared to last year.
Despite these challenges, Cox's Bazar remains a vibrant hub for holidaymakers, offering them a chance to conclude the year amidst the serenity of its scenic beaches.
