Cox’s Bazar eyes global tourism hub

The government has initiated steps to prepare an integrated master plan to develop Cox’s Bazar into an international and regional tourism hub, Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said.

He said the government is also considering reviewing long-standing restrictions on development activities within the 50-metre and 500-metre coastal zones to facilitate planned investment while ensuring environmental protection.

The finance minister and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed disclosed the matter while speaking to reporters after a meeting at the Secretariat on Thursday on the integrated development plan for Cox’s Bazar.

Under existing regulations, permanent or commercial structures are generally prohibited within 50 metres of the high-tide line, while large-scale resorts, hotels and industrial facilities within 500 metres of the coast require special approval and environmental clearance.

Amir Khasru said these restrictions need to be reconsidered to create opportunities for tourism development.

“Areas identified for tourism development need hotels, motels, resorts and entertainment facilities. Development opportunities must be created while protecting the environment,” he said.

He said the Ministry of Environment has the responsibility of ensuring ecological protection, but restrictions should not discourage investment.

Highlighting global examples, the finance minister said coastal areas in many countries have been developed through international-standard planning.

“Bangladesh is a small country, so planned vertical development should be encouraged. Otherwise, protecting industrial zones, water bodies and agricultural land will become difficult,” he said, adding that high-rise development has helped major tourist cities around the world achieve planned growth.

He said the government has major plans centring on Cox’s Bazar, including infrastructure development.
The minister said construction of an international airport is underway, rail connectivity has already been established and road links with Chattogram are being improved.

With these infrastructure developments, Cox’s Bazar will be transformed into a modern, digital tourism city, he said.

Amir Khasru said Cox’s Bazar will become an important growth centre as Bangladesh moves towards achieving a US$1 trillion economy by 2034.

He added that the tourism, trade and service sectors would play a key role in strengthening the district’s contribution to the national economy.