Cox's Bazar:The popular beach town of Cox's Bazar is experiencing a significant influx of tourists during the Durga Puja holidays. This surge comes as concerns ease following a recent deadly fire at a local resort, leading to increased bookings in hotels.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, tourism businesses anticipate that about 10 lakh tourists will visit the area during the 10-day holiday period ending on October 25, potentially generating business worth between Tk 900 crore and Tk 1,000 crore.
The fire at TupTup Resort in Inani on October 17, which resulted in 10 fatalities, initially raised concerns about tourist arrivals. However, hotel owners report a rise in tourist numbers in recent days. Abul Kashem Sikder, president of the Cox's Bazar Hotel and Guesthouse Owners Association, noted that approximately 95 percent of rooms in over 20 star-category hotels and 80 percent of rooms in medium-sized hotels, guesthouses, and cottages have been booked in advance.
Local businesspeople reported that at least three lakh tourists visited the beach during the three consecutive holidays from Thursday to Saturday. The beaches at Laboni, Sugandha, and Kalatoli were particularly crowded on Tuesday, with visitors partaking in various beach activities.
Deputy Commissioner Md A. Mannan stated that the administration has implemented necessary measures to ensure tourist safety, prevent harassment and excessive charges, and maintain order during the holidays.
Durga Puja is being celebrated at 324 mandaps throughout the district. After the Vijaya Dashami rituals on October 21, at least 400 idols are expected to be immersed in the sea. The event's organizers anticipate an attendance of 2.5 lakh to three lakh people. Uday Shankar Pal Mithu, acting president of the Cox's Bazar District Puja Celebration Council, mentioned that preparations are underway for a peaceful immersion festival, with support from the administration, law enforcement agencies, and political parties.