C T Online Desk: Various organisations have undertaken initiatives for infrastructural development at many tourist sites in and around Chattogram city to attract more tourists from both domestic and international destinations.
The projects are the ‘Introduction of Tourism Facilities at Parki in Chattogram,’ the ‘Construction of Park under the Kalurghat Bridge to ChaktaiKhal (canal) Road Construction Project of Chattogram Development Board,’ and the development of Guliakhali Beach.
Parki Beach is located in Anwara upazila, approximately 20 kilometers away from Chattogram city. Surrounded by Zhau forest, the sandy beach has gained popularity as a tourist attraction in Bangladesh.
As the beach is situated near the estuary of the Bay of Bengal and the Karnaphuli River, visitors can enjoy views of large ships anchored at the outer dock, fishermen catching fish in the sea, beautiful sunsets, various colored crabs on the beach, and a peaceful environment.
However, due to a lack of residential facilities and improved eateries, tourists cannot spend the night near the beach.
To address this issue, the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation initiated a project to develop a tourist complex in 2017, involving Tk 73 crore. The project’s timeline has been extended twice since then.
During an inspection of the project in July 2023, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, Mahbub Ali, expressed optimism that Parki Beach would become the second Cox’s Bazar after the implementation of various projects.
He also mentioned the Bangabandhu Tunnel, built beneath the Karnaphuli River, as a significant development that would improve communication with Parki Beach.
Despite the presence of a unit of Tourist Police working to ensure safety in the area, they operate from their office in the port city, which is a surprising arrangement.
When asked, Superintendent of Tourist Police (SP) Md Apple Mahmud explained that they have no office in the area and have requested space in the under-construction tourist complex.
General Manager (Planning, Training, and Statistics) of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) Srijan Bikash Barua said that almost 55 percent of the construction work for the project has already been completed, with a completion date set for June 30 of the following year.
In another development, the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) is working on creating a new tourist spot in the city’s Bakolia area, similar to Patenga Sea Beach.
This project aims to protect the city from tidal surges and improve the communication system. It includes the development of a walkway and seating arrangements for tourists, as well as beautification.
Project Director (PD) Rajib Das explained that the walkway would extend for over five kilometers along the Karnaphuli River, starting from Shah Amanat Bridge to the Bolirhat area. This initiative is expected to enhance tourism in the region.
On the other side of the district, Guliakhali offers a unique natural environment with green grass beds, numerous small channels, and trees. To preserve this natural beauty, the district administration has designated it a protected area and plans to construct restaurants, resorts, scenic wooden bridges, shopping complexes, and parking spaces in the area.
They have already developed washrooms and bathing zones for tourists with the assistance of an NGO and seek further support from the relevant ministry.
Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) is responsible for maintaining open spaces and parks in the city. They are developing a watchtower and park at Batali Hill, which is expected to provide visitors with a panoramic view of the city.
Furthermore, the district administration is planning to create a sunset-viewing spot near their DC Park on Outer Ring Road, complete with a walkway and organized shops to promote tourism in the area.
