Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita on Monday said deputy commissioners (DCs) have been instructed to ensure safety and security of tourists across the country.
She made the remarks while speaking to reporters after the first session of the second day of the DC Conference at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka at 9am.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Ms Afroza Khanam Rita, MP, and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP, attended the programme as special guests.
The minister said discussions focused on renovation of tourist destinations across districts. The meeting also covered steps to attract more visitors and improve facilities in areas including Monpura and Netrokona, along with several other districts.
She said, “If tourism develops properly, it will attract more visitors and help people learn more about the country.”
Afroza Khanam Rita added that the ministry will extend full support to implement proposals received from field administrations.
Responding to a question, she said tourist safety received priority in the discussion. She also said instructions were given to maintain cleanliness and improve management at Cox’s Bazar, especially the beach area.
Replying to another query, the minister said the issue of seasonal travel restrictions to Saint Martin’s Island was not discussed in the session.
She said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is keen to turn tourism into a full-fledged industry. She added that both public and private sector participation is being encouraged.
On airport-related issues, she said DCs highlighted the need for further development of Saidpur Airport, and work has already begun in this regard.
She added that initiatives have been taken to make several airports operational, including those in Thakurgaon and Bogura.
Afroza Khanam Rita said she will visit Bogura on 7 May to assess the possibility of setting up an airport and a flying academy there.
She said, “We want to set up a flying academy so that aspiring students, including those from underprivileged backgrounds, can receive training and become pilots.”
Tourism share target doubled to 6–7% of GDP
The minister farther said the BNP government is committed to implementing its election manifesto in the fastest possible time. She said district commissioners are expected to make maximum efforts to advance field-level development activities.
She added that the tourism sector currently contributes only 3 percent to the country’s GDP. The government aims to raise this to 6–7 percent.
The minister said Bangladesh has 1,742 tourist spots, meaning every district has tourism potential. She said a master plan is being prepared for the development of the tourism sector. She also expressed hope that the sector can move forward by using the skills and talents of officials.
She drew attention to the Culture Minister regarding the development of Baliati Jamindar Bari and Teota Jamindar Bari in Manikganj to attract tourists.
State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat said each official can become a driver of change in their respective districts. He said a new tourist spot, a clean and safe environment, or a creative initiative can transform a district’s economy.
He added that the journey to place Bangladesh prominently on the global tourism map will begin through the efforts of district commissioners.
Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani presided over the session. Culture Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury, MP, attended as the chief guest.
Others present included State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayyam, Culture Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister Zahed Ur Rahman, and senior government officials.
