Throughout Ramadan, Cox’s Bazar beach remained relatively quiet. However, the tranquility was disrupted when locals began heading to the beach in the afternoon of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Tourists started arriving on Tuesday morning, reviving the lively atmosphere in the hotel and motel areas along the beach.
In preparation for the influx of tourists, hotels, motels, resorts, and restaurants have been cleaned and renovated. Additionally, small traders and hawkers have set up their stalls, ready for the crowds.
Tourism experts mentioned that this year, the extended 9-day Eid holiday has given many working individuals the chance to travel with their families. Cox’s Bazar has long been a favored spot for tourists during extended breaks or special holidays. In addition to the beach, visitors can experience the breathtaking natural beauty of hills, rivers, streams, and waterfalls.
Hotel and motel owners have shared that a large number of tourists visited Cox’s Bazar in the four months prior to Ramadan, with weekly arrivals averaging between 250,000 and 300,000. During last year’s Eid-ul-Fitr holiday, at least 1 million tourists visited the area. This year, many travelers have already made reservations by contacting hotels online or via phone. Between April 2 and April 5, 80 percent of the rooms have already been booked. More than 170,000 tourists can be accommodated in over 500 hotels, motels, guesthouses, and resorts in Cox’s Bazar town and the Marine Drive area.
Abul Kashem Sikder, president of the Cox's Bazar Hotel Guesthouse Owners' Association, stated that tourists have been heading towards Cox’s Bazar from the day after Eid, which is Tuesday.
Additional Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Apple Mahmud of the Tourist Police in the Cox's Bazar region, said that, considering the expected increase in tourists, patrols by the Tourist Police have been intensified at the beach and tourist spots. In addition to the Tourist Police, other law enforcement agencies are also on alert.
District Commissioner Mohammad Salahuddin stated that coordination is being made with all tourism-related sectors to ensure that tourists receive good services. Mobile courts, led by executive magistrates, will be deployed at the beach and surrounding entertainment centers to prevent overcharging in hotels and restaurants, curb harassment, and ensure safe travel for tourists.
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
