Dhaka: The government has announced an ambitious plan to transform Moheshkhali and Matarbari into major tourist destinations, aiming to attract both local and international visitors to the coastal islands. This strategic initiative is part of a broader effort to reshape the coastal economy by establishing Moheshkhali as the next industrial hub of the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government’s plan includes the development of eco-tourism parks, conservation zones, and green corridors to protect the island’s natural environment while creating sustainable employment opportunities in tourism and conservation sectors. The Moheshkhali Integrated Development Authority (Mida) Executive Chairman, Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, recently presented this comprehensive plan to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
Local residents, such as Sanaullah Mustafa from Matarbari and Syed Noor from Moheshkhali, have expressed optimism about the government’s initiative, anticipating that the developme
nt will make the area a popular tourist destination. Mustafa noted that many tourists already visit Matarbari to enjoy its natural beauty, and the new plan will further bolster its appeal. Noor shared similar sentiments, highlighting the area’s scenic beauty and the influx of visitors to sites like the Matarbari Ultra Super Critical Coal-Fired Power Plant and the future deep seaport.
Rafiqul Islam, another resident of Matarbari, emphasized the potential job opportunities that the project could create for locals, drawing parallels with the tourist influx in Cox’s Bazar. The implementation of the government’s plan is expected to increase tourism in Cox’s Bazar by 1.5 times, leading to more employment in sectors such as hospitality, food services, transport, and tour guiding.
During a recent meeting with Mida members in Dhaka, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus discussed the prospects of establishing an eco-tourism park in the region, with a particular focus on launching an afforestation campaign. He stres
sed the importance of planning for the future landscape of the area.
Mida Chairman presented an outline of the Maheshkhali-Matarbari project, which is set to be executed in three phases: 2025 to 2030, 2030 to 2045, and 2045 to 2055. The 120-day work plan is already in motion, with the full master plan expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Local stakeholders, like Abdur Rahim, a rickshaw puller from Moheshkhali, have noted the current tourist influx, with around 1,000 to 1,200 visitors daily. The development project is anticipated to significantly boost these numbers, enhancing the local economy and providing new opportunities for the community.