Tourism needs more than promotion

DESPITE the wealth of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Bangladesh has been struggling to develop a thriving tourism industry, though the country is blessed with diverse tourist attractions, from Cox’s Bazar’s unbroken sandy beach and the Sundarbans’ mangrove forests to Kuakata’s sea views, Sajek Valley’s hills and the archaeological treasures of Paharpur and Panam Nagar.

The problem is not a shortage of attractions but a failure to protect, manage and promote them effectively.

Official figures cited in recent years put tourism’s contribution to Bangladesh’s GDP at around 2.3-3.02 per cent, with domestic travellers accounting for much of the activity, reports this newspaper on Friday.

This gap between potential and performance demands serious attention from policymakers.

Tourism involves far more than scenic landscapes and historical landmarks. Visitors also expect safe transport, clean facilities, reasonable prices, reliable information and courteous treatment.

Harassment, overcharging, poor sanitation and inadequate security can undermine even the most attractive destination.

Unless these shortcomings are addressed, promotional campaigns alone will do little to attract more foreign visitors.

Environmental degradation presents another major challenge. Saint Martin’s Island, Bangladesh’s only coral island, has come under pressure from excessive visitor numbers, waste and unplanned development.

Restrictions introduced to regulate tourism reflect the need to protect its fragile ecosystem.

However, preventive measures should have been taken before the damage became severe.

Sajek Valley faces similar risks as hotels, restaurants and other infrastructure expand around its natural landscape.

Development is necessary to support tourism, but unregulated construction can destroy the very beauty that draws visitors.

The reported removal of bricks from Paharpur Buddhist Bihar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further illustrates the consequences of neglecting historical preservation.

What Bangladesh needs is a comprehensive tourism management strategy rather than promotion alone.

The government and local authorities must enforce environmental and heritage protection laws, prevent illegal construction, improve sanitation and ensure adequate emergency services.

Equally important is the involvement of local communities. Employment in accommodation, transport, guiding, food and handicrafts can provide sustainable livelihoods while encouraging residents to preserve their surroundings.

Tourists must also be made aware of their responsibilities towards local cultures and natural resources.

Protecting these assets, ensuring visitor safety and improving services must take precedence over indiscriminate expansion.

Tourism then only can generate sustainable economic benefits without sacrificing the natural and historical treasures on which its future depends.