With the onset of winter, the country’s longest sea beach in Cox’s Bazar has once again become crowded with tourists giving local business a breath of fresh air.
Drawn by gentle sunshine, mild temperatures, and the serene blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, thousands of holidaymakers from across the country are flocking to the coastal city.
With tourist numbers rising, beachside businesses have regained momentum. Many vendors and operators expressed hope of recovering losses incurred over the year.
Jet ski operator Hasan said business had improved since winter began.
Shell trader Hafiza Karim noted that while shell demand had declined, he was trying to boost sales with handmade ornaments and showpieces.
“The increase in tourists has renewed our hope,” he said.
Karim Ullah Kolim, General Secretary of the Cox’s Bazar Hotel-Motel-Guesthouse Owners’ Association, said bookings have risen noticeably.
“The influx of tourists will revive the local tourism sector. We are working to ensure safety, cleanliness, and quality service,” he added.
Tourist turnout was particularly high during weekend, as Sugandha, Laboni, Kolatoli and other key beach points remained busy from morning until night.
Visitors of all ages created a festive atmosphere along the shoreline; some enjoying sea bathing, others horseback riding or taking beach bike and jet ski rides. Children could be seen building sandcastles on the wet sand.
Nasrin Anjuman from Cumilla said she flew colourful kites with her nephew, and his excitement briefly took her back to her childhood.
Mousumi Sultana from Dhaka said that the beauty of the sea feels greater in winter and that traveling safely with her family is her biggest comfort.
Jasim Uddin of Sirajganj said he made full use of the weekend break and that standing near the waves washes away all worries, leaving only the blue water and the sky before him.
To enhance visitor safety, authorities have deployed 27 lifeguards, 38 beach workers, and about 50 volunteers across three major beach points.
Belal Hossain, Assistant Supervisor of the beach workers, told TIMES that tourists remain safe if they stay within designated areas. He said that they are maintaining constant monitoring.
Imtiaz Ahmed, Field Team Manager of the Sea Safe Lifeguard project, said their operations had expanded with the increase in tourists, including regular announcements and close surveillance of swimmers.
Chief of the Cox’s Bazar Tourist Police additional deputy inspector general Apel Mahmood said, “Every tourist is our guest. We remain on maximum alert to ensure their safety, with enhanced patrols and surveillance at key points.”
