The Cox’s Bazar coastline is facing severe erosion due to the relentless assault of an unusually high tide and strong waves. From Kalatali to Nazirartek — a stretch of nearly 7 kilometers — sand dunes along the beach are collapsing one after another.
Large waves have uprooted over a hundred casuarina (jhau) trees, damaged roads, and torn down electric lines tangled in the fallen trees. Numerous governments and private establishments are now under threat.
Local authorities claim necessary steps are being taken to curb the damage, though many locals believe the sea cannot be tamed.
Fisherman Rafique Ahmed, who lives near the beach, told reporters that the sea becomes particularly dangerous during the monsoon every year. “We live in fear — not knowing when our homes might be washed away or the roads destroyed.”
A visit to the area revealed that geo-bags had been placed earlier to prevent erosion. However, even these bags are being washed away by the powerful waves. Massive casuarina trees continue to topple in the process.
Locals said they had hoped the geo-bags would work, but the erosion has now become unstoppable.
According to them, given the current situation between Kalatali and Nazirartek, it seems the entire beach may eventually disappear.
The area from Kalatali to Nazirartek is lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and businesses related to tourism — all now at serious risk. Locals are urging for an urgent and permanent solution. “Geo-bags are not enough — we need proper planning and tree plantation,” they said.
Local businessmen Abdur Rahman and Karim Ullah told reporters, “This erosion is destroying not just the natural beauty, but our livelihoods. If swift action isn’t taken, the beauty of this beach will be lost forever.”
According to beachside business owners, this erosion has become a recurring problem every monsoon over the past few years. When the tide intensifies, seawater comes dangerously close to the coastline, causing rapid collapse of the scenic sand dunes.
However, this year’s erosion is more severe than before, they added. “If immediate steps aren’t taken, one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations could lose its charm.”
Md Shahidul Alam, Additional District Magistrate of Cox’s Bazar, said, “We’re aware of the erosion and have taken some initial measures.”
He added that discussions are underway with higher authorities to implement a long-term plan to protect the beach and its surroundings.