Dhaka: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat on Sunday informed Parliament that the government has started working to finalise a comprehensive mega plan for the development of the country's tourism sector by identifying 1,498 tourist destinations. 'Work on formulating the National Tourism Policy 2026 has already begun. Work is underway to finalise an integrated tourism master plan by identifying about 1,498 tourist centres across the country,' he said.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Minister made these remarks in response to a starred question from Shaukat Ara Akter (333 Women's Seat-33). Rashiduzzaman stated that the government has taken initiatives to develop tourist destinations as environmentally friendly and sustainable attractions to attract both domestic and foreign tourists. He also mentioned that the process of preparing a Tourism Satellite Account is underway to address information gaps in the tourism sector and facilitate its planned development.
The minister highlighted that initiatives have been taken to develop tourist spots under a community-based tourism model, involving local people in the development process. To enhance tourist safety, the government has taken steps to increase the manpower of the Tourist Police. Millat further revealed that a decision has been made to sign a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs for joint efforts to develop cultural tourism in Bangladesh.
'After signing the MoU, work on formulating a Standard Operating Procedure will begin. In addition, a joint task force will be formed to expedite the activities,' he said. The minister also shared that initiatives are underway to brand Bangladesh as an international tourist destination through the Beautiful Bangladesh campaign. As part of its efforts to promote the country's tourism attractions internationally, the government is developing the beautifulbangladesh.gov.bd website.