[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Tourism

[Saif]

Tourism for peace: prospect in Bangladesh

Another thrust comes round for promoting Bangladesh's dormant tourism opportunities, attuned to a global campaign trail, for both economic and social gains. September 27 is World Tourism Day (WTD). This day is observed in the member- countries of the United Nations (UN) in a meaningful manner for t

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Tourism for peace: prospect in Bangladesh
Md Anowar Hossain Bhuiyan
Published :
Sep 26, 2024 21:51
Updated :
Sep 26, 2024 21:51

Another thrust comes round for promoting Bangladesh's dormant tourism opportunities, attuned to a global campaign trail, for both economic and social gains. September 27 is World Tourism Day (WTD). This day is observed in the member- countries of the United Nations (UN) in a meaningful manner for tourism development to ensure benefits for all stakeholders. This year, the theme of this day is 'Tourism and Peace' that highlights the active role of tourism in keeping global peace and exchanging opportunities for cultural harmony to build a peaceful and inclusive globe with economic prosperity.

Moreover, the influential role of tourism is essential to promote peace by encouraging cross-cultural interactions and enhancing the host nations' economy. The host country for WTD this year is Georgia, which is rich in culture, history, and lucrative landscapes. SDG-16 is relevant to the WTD theme of achieving sustainable development for any country.

The WTD's theme emphasises global peace and justice regarding social equity, migration, climate-change issues, cultural conservation, and diplomatic justice. So, the international community's focus on tourism development for long-term prosperity and peace around the globe by encouraging fruitful dialogue and successful collaboration among nations. Tourists can learn about locals' culture, heritage, lifestyles, values, and other local aspects when they travel to the destinations. These diverse experiences give them a clear understanding of the regional perspectives, leading to achieving peace and prosperity in society. Tourism is a powerful weapon for connecting communities for job creation, enhancing local economics, conserving natural and cultural heritage, and building peaceful circumstances. Furthermore, tourism can promote economic enhancement among the neighbouring communities through peaceful cooperation and development. This industry allows hosts and tourists to interact and share their values, cultural diversity, lifestyle, experiences, and beliefs, promoting mutual respect, peace, and prosperity.

Tourism development can ensure social peace and justice regarding economic enhancement, cultural-exchange opportunities, environmental awareness, and community wellbeing. The tourism sector makes a significant financial contribution by providing job opportunities, attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and developing infrastructure. Tourism activities can preserve and promote cultural and natural heritage and provide mutual understanding among the communities. This sector's development can ensure local stakeholders' awareness of ecological issues and encourage tourists to travel to protect the environment responsibly. Its development can improve the quality of life and increase basic facilities and services for the local communities. Sustainable tourism development ensures equitable peace levels in societies due to improved positive attitudes and harmonious relationships among the communities.

Tourism development for peacekeeping activities can help achieve SDG targets for the nations. It can reduce violence by establishing responsible development, security, and surveillance in the destinations. Sustainable tourism development creates better futures for the relevant stakeholders. It reduces crime, trafficking, other illegal activities, and corruption due to tourist activities. Sustainable tourism development encourages tourism companies to conduct transparent and accountable business activities. It is ensuring equitable, inclusive, representative, and participatory tourism activities. Moreover, sustainable tourism development is respectful to diverse races, religions, genders, ages, and marginal people for understanding the ethical values of the community.

Bangladesh is full of tourist treasures such as beaches, lakes, rivers, hills, forests, wildlife, tribal life, archaeological remains, historical monuments, religious and cultural heritages, and handicrafts that offer great value for tourist attractions. These attractions provide valuable experiences for tourists from home and abroad. Moreover, at least 55 ethnic communities living in Bangladesh have unique cultural identities. Their followed traditional lifestyle has remained intact for hundreds of years. Furthermore, the people of Bangladesh are friendly, simple, and very popular with international and domestic tourists. The factors mentioned above can make Bangladesh a popular tourist destination worldwide.

Bangladesh can focus on tourism development to ensure sustainable growth and maintain peace and justice. Tourism development can benefit the local economy and categorise the country as a 'safe destination' worldwide. Moreover, tourism development can reduce crime, violence, and terrorism by protecting tourists and improving the country's law-and-order situation. People from different religious and ethnic communities live together in the country. Tourism development can be able to maintain harmonious relationships among the people of different religious and ethnic communities in Bangladesh. This harmony is one of the great attractions for the tourists and also keeps peace in society. Moreover, government agencies are also concerned about protecting tourists from unavoidable circumstances, which ensures peace and prosperity in the country.

However, some challenges remain to keeping peace through tourism development in Bangladesh. Firstly, there is a lack of a proper image of Bangladesh as a tourist destination abroad to attract foreigners. Secondly, poor tourism infrastructure and improper development of tourist assets also make it difficult for peaceful tourism. Thirdly, proper publicity of tourist attractions is also essential for promoting Bangladesh as a safe tourist destination. Fourthly, trained and adequate manpower is needed to provide secure services to tourists. Some initiatives can be taken to develop Bangladesh as a safe destination. Firstly, the government can expand the services of Tourist Police countrywide and formulate proper policy support for developing Bangladesh as a safe destination. Secondly, sufficient tourism infrastructure and sustainable use of tourist assets are necessary for safe tourist destinations. Thirdly, essential initiatives for promotional activities and qualified manpower should be taken for tourism development. Fourthly, the foreign missions of Bangladesh can take initiatives to promote the country's positive image abroad. Finally, necessary efforts are essential to arrange coordinated initiatives between government agencies, relevant tourism stakeholders, and local communities for the country's responsible tourism development to ensure social peace and prosperity. These efforts will ensure the achievement of SDG 16 as well as long-term stability and justice in societies.

Dr Md Anowar Hossain Bhuiyan teaches at the National University, Bangladesh.​

 

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Tension in the hills hits tourism

Empty hotels, unsold fruits at roadside vendors and idle jeeps at stands -- these are the adverse sights in the south-eastern hill districts of Khagrachhari and Rangamati, two popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh, following the recent deadly violence.

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Tension in the hills hits tourism

Normally vibrant with tourists and staff, a resort in Sajek Valley now wears a desolate look after a recent directive by the authorities discouraging people from visiting the region. Sector people estimate the blow to be around Tk 80 lakh per day. Photo: Subrata Chakma

Empty hotels, unsold fruits at roadside vendors and idle jeeps at stands -- these are the adverse sights in the south-eastern hill districts of Khagrachhari and Rangamati, two popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh, following the recent deadly violence.

Industry people estimate the blow to the scenic tourist spots to be around Tk 80 lakh per day, which amounts to over Tk 10 crore during the past two weeks, as visitors were discouraged from travelling there.

Tourist flow to the hilly districts was already lean for about three months in late 2023 ahead of the national elections in January. Then came the flooding, following which the hill tourism started to recover until fierce nationwide student movements began in July.

The government ouster in August and subsequent violence between the indigenous communities and Bangalees subsequently punctured the turnaround spirit.

Amid this turmoil, the directive issued by the Rangamati District Administration yesterday discouraging tourists from visiting Sajek Valley has posed another hurdle for businesses around the "queen of hills" during the peak season for tourists.

During the peak season, which runs from September to April, around 3,000 to 3,500 tourists visit Sajek Valley per day. Some 130 hotels and motels there accommodate these visitors.

"We have not been getting enough guests since September 19," said Rahul Chakma John, organising secretary of the Cottage and Resort Owners Association (CROA) of Sajek.

"But the current situation is not favourable," John said.

"We do not have enough income since tourist flow has dwindled."

He added that not only cottage and resort owners but also restaurants, transport services and other related businesses had been suffering.

For example, indigenous people sell oranges, pineapples, bananas, papayas, guavas, lemons and watermelons to tourists. So, if people do not come and buy, the unsold fruits at roadside shops mean a direct blow to the livelihood of growers, he said.

Bangladesh's tourism sector has a turnover of around Tk 76,990 crore annually, according to a 2020 report by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. The country boasts 30 tourist destinations with around 2.5 crore local people visiting the spots annually.

Of domestic tourists, nearly 10 percent travel to the hill districts, according to an unofficial estimate. Combined with Cox's Bazar, the three hill districts typically draw in 55 percent of all domestic tourists.

The turmoil not only impacts Sajek Valley, but also hampers tourism and hospitality businesses in Rangamati, according to Suparna Debbarman, president of CROA.

He said owners of cottages and resorts in Rangamati town are in fear of possible attacks.

Mousumi Chakma, owner of Gallery Hotel in Rangamati town, said they usually keep their restaurant open from 10:00am to 11:00pm every day. However, recent arson attacks on properties owned by ethnic minorities is compelling them to close as early as 7:00pm.

"We have seen every incident of communal violence target indigenous businesses," she added.

Alok Bikash Chakma, manager of Rangamati Holiday Complex, said that since last week's arson attacks, they have incurred losses of at least Tk 60,000 to Tk 70,000 per day due to a lack of tourists.

Moin Uddin, president of the Rangamati Hotel Malik Samity, said the recent violence caused income to plummet to zero in Rangamati town.

"Many tourists now feel panicked and unsafe about visiting Rangamati," he added.

According to Uddin, there are around 60 hotels in Rangamati town, with each incurring losses of Tk 50,000 to Tk 60,000 per day amid the current situation.

Sarwar Hossain, manager of Nishargo River Valley at Kaptai upazila in Rangamati, said that since July, they have been suffering from business disruption due to a lack of tourists.

However, local tourism in the adjacent Bandarban district has not been largely affected as tourists are still coming. There has been no communal violence in the district recently.

Royal Bawm, manager of Hill Side Resort in Bandarban town, said that almost all hotels and resorts in the town are getting expected occupancy every day and there is no fear among the locals.

However, residents of the hill district said the number of travellers who enjoy adventure and want to travel to remote hilly spots, such as Boga Lake, Tazing Dong, Keokradong, Remakri Waterfall and Nafakhung, has declined since early this year.

Due to the decline, the income of the indigenous people in remote areas of the district has decreased.​

 

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TOAB threatens movement against move to limit tourists on Saint Martin

President of Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) Mohammed Rafiuzzaman has threatened a greater movement against any “negative decision” on Saint Martin's island ahead of the tourism season

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TOAB threatens movement against move to limit tourists on Saint Martin

File photo

President of Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) Mohammed Rafiuzzaman has threatened a greater movement against any "negative decision" on Saint Martin's island ahead of the tourism season.

He said the government could work together with the stakeholders of the tourism sector to protect both the environment and the tourism industry considering the large contributions of tourism sector to the economy.

The TOAB president said this while speaking at a press conference held at Economic Reporters' Forum (ERF) auditorium today.

Saint Martin Poribesh and Parjatan Oikya Unnayan Jote organised the press conference in protest of the government's recent move to limit tourists and overnight stay on the island.

"Tourists can travel to Saint Martin's island from November to February every year. The livelihood of thousands of people involved in the tourism sector in Cox's Bazar and Saint Martin would be hampered," said Rafiuzzaman.

He said comprehensive policy should be formulated for the island, allowing tourism activities in accordance with the policy.

Saint Martin Poribesh and Parjatan Oikya Unnayan Jote placed a 19-point demand to protect the tourism industry and the livelihood of the residents of the island.

There are 100 hotels and resorts in Saint Martin and around Tk 1,000 crore has been invested, taking all types of permission from the government entities of Cox's Bazar, they said adding that the sudden decision of discouraging tourism and night stay in Saint Martin will destroy the investment.

Leaders of TOAB, Tour Operators Association of Cox's Bazar, Saint Martin Poribesh and Parjatan Oikya Unnayan Jote E-Tourism Association of Bangladesh (E-TAB), St. Martin Shop Owners Association, St. Martin Hotel Owners Association, among others, were present at the press conference.​

 

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No decision on registration to visit St Martin’s: govt

After daylong confusion over the requirements for travelling to Saint Martin’s, the government has clarified that no decision has been made on implementing a registration system for visiting the island.

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No decision on registration to visit St Martin’s: govt

File photo

After daylong confusion over the requirements for travelling to Saint Martin's, the government has clarified that no decision has been made on implementing a registration system for visiting the island.

The matter was under discussion, but no decision was announced yet, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said in a statement yesterday.

Several media outlets reported that registration has been made mandatory to visit the lone coral island of Bangladesh, prompting the ministry to clarify its position on the matter.

The ministry also discussed how confusion over the matter was created.

It said stakeholders discussed in detail ways to protect the environment of St Martin's at a seminar in Cox's Bazar on stopping the use of single-use plastic on the island.

The reports cited the seminar as the source of the news.​

 

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St Martin's: No overnight stays in Nov, daily cap on tourists in Dec, Jan

Interim government announces plans to limit visits to the coral-rich island

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St Martin's: No overnight stays in Nov, daily cap on tourists in Dec, Jan
Interim government announces plans to limit visits to the coral-rich island

Photo: Sharif Sarwar

The government today decided to limit tourism in Saint Martin's Island for a few months as part of its efforts to ensure an environment friendly atmosphere there.

The Council of Advisers of the interim government took the decision, said the Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir at the Foreign Service Academy.

As part of the decision the tourists will be allowed in Saint Martin's Island in November but they cannot stay nights. Overnight stays will be allowed in December and January but the number of tourists on the island cannot exceed 2,000 per day, he added.

The island will remain closed to tourists in February. Cleaning and conservation initiatives will be conducted then.

Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, Assistant Press Secretaries Nayem Ali and Shuchismita Tithi attended the briefing.​

 

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Islanders protest in St Martin's over govt’s tourism restrictions

Hundreds of residents in Saint Martin's Island staged demonstrations today in response to the government's decision to limit tourism on the coral island in an effort to ensure an eco-friendly environment

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Islanders protest in St Martin's over govt’s tourism restrictions

Photo: Collected

Hundreds of residents in Saint Martin's Island staged demonstrations today in response to the government's decision to limit tourism on the coral island in an effort to ensure an eco-friendly environment.

The islanders this evening participated in a procession, chanting slogans against the government's decision, which they termed "suicidal".

"We don't accept the suicidal decision of limiting tourists on the island," they chanted as they marched through the streets of the island.

Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir announced yesterday that the advisory council has decided to impose restrictions on tourist visits to Saint Martin's Island for four months, starting in November.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy, he said the tourists will be allowed to visit the island in November, but they will not be permitted to stay overnight.

In December and January, tourists will be allowed to stay overnight, but the number of visitors will be capped at 2,000 per day. The island will be closed to tourists in February to facilitate cleaning efforts and protect the environment, Apurba added.​

 

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Exploring new tourist spots

Tourism in Bangladesh has experienced significant growth in recent years, with thousands of Bangladeshis travelling to various tourist spots across the country. For many, domestic tourism has become a favoured option for family vacations and weekend getaways. However, the number of tourist destinat

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Exploring new tourist spots
Mir Mostafizur Rahaman
Published :
Oct 23, 2024 22:08
Updated :
Oct 23, 2024 22:08

Tourism in Bangladesh has experienced significant growth in recent years, with thousands of Bangladeshis travelling to various tourist spots across the country. For many, domestic tourism has become a favoured option for family vacations and weekend getaways. However, the number of tourist destinations in the country remains limited, which is a major barrier to sustainable growth of this industry. Among the most visited places, Bandarban hill district and St. Martin's Island stand out as key attractions, but both locations face restrictions, creating challenges that must be addressed to prevent a decline of the tourism sector.

The beautiful Bandarban hill district, with its lush greenery and vibrant indigenous cultures, is often subjected to restrictions for security reasons. Although these measures are important for maintaining law and order in sensitive regions, the frequent closure of such tourist spots hampers the growth of domestic tourism.

St. Martin's Island, Bangladesh's only coral island, is another prime attraction that is facing severe restrictions. Due to environmental concerns and the fragility of its coral reefs, the government has limited the number of tourists who can visit the island. St. Martin's Island is not just a scenic location, but also an environmental treasure that requires careful preservation. Pollution and over-tourism have been identified as significant threats to the island's biodiversity, which has led to the imposition of restrictions on its use as a tourist destination.

One immediate effect of these restrictions is the increased pressure on Cox's Bazar, which is already the largest tourist attraction in Bangladesh. Known for having the longest unbroken sea beach in the world, Cox's Bazar attracts millions of visitors every year. With restrictions on Bandarban and St. Martin's Island, more tourists will inevitably turn to Cox's Bazar as their primary destination, exacerbating existing issues of overcrowding and environmental degradation.

Overdependence on a few tourist spots, such as Cox's Bazar, not only threatens the sustainability of these locations but also limits the overall growth potential of the tourism industry. It becomes a zero-sum game, where increased tourism in one area results in the neglect or over-exploitation of another. This trend must be reversed if Bangladesh is to fully realise the potential of its tourism sector.

To mitigate these challenges, it is crucial for the government and private sector to invest in the development of new tourist destinations. There are numerous untapped regions across Bangladesh that could be developed into attractive alternatives for tourists. From the scenic tea gardens of Sylhet to the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, Bangladesh boasts a rich diversity of landscapes that could serve as additional tourist hotspots.

Moreover, infrastructure development, particularly in lesser-known regions, is essential. This could include improved transportation networks, modern lodging facilities, and better promotion of new or lesser-known destinations. Tourism authorities need to actively work on diversifying the available options so that tourists are not confined to just a handful of popular spots. Such diversification would not only reduce the burden on current hotspots but also create employment opportunities in newer regions, providing economic benefits to local communities.

It is important to note that only a small fraction of Bangladeshis can afford to travel abroad for holidays. For the vast majority, domestic tourism is the only feasible option for vacationing with family and friends. The tourism sector also provides livelihoods for thousands of people, including hotel workers, tour operators, and local vendors. Any decline in domestic tourism due to limited options or over-reliance on a few destinations could lead to significant job losses and economic downturns in the tourism-dependent regions.

To safeguard the future of the tourism industry, it is imperative that domestic tourism be expanded and diversified. By developing new destinations and providing a wider range of options, authorities can ensure the continued growth of this vital sector while protecting the environment and maintaining the cultural and natural heritage of Bangladesh.

The tourism industry in Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture. While popular destinations like Bandarban and St. Martin's Island face necessary restrictions, it is essential for the government to develop alternative spots to prevent overcrowding and ensure the sustainability of the sector. By focusing on expanding domestic tourism, Bangladesh can protect its environmental treasures, stimulate local economies, and create more opportunities for both tourists and industry professionals alike.​

 

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Saint Martin threatened by unrestricted tourism

Initiatives had been taken to protect the island three times before. The government backed down coming under pressure from the tourism businessmen

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Saint Martin threatened by unrestricted tourism
There are 20 different risks including rise in temperature and salinity, deforestation, along with pollution. · The trees are being destroyed from white fly infestation. · Decision to limit tourist movement for four months since November.
Iftekhar Mahmud
Dhaka
Published: 27 Oct 2024, 10: 07

Tourists cross the jetty on St Martin’s Island on 26 February 2023. File photo

The only coral island of the country, Saint Martin is faced with at least 20 different types of dangers. These risk factors have been created in the last two decades. The soil, water and air are turning toxic on this island that is almost 3,500 years old.

Because of these dangers created from uncontrolled tourism, the temperature on this island is remaining at least 3 degrees Celsius higher than that in other parts of the country.

These findings came up in a research that was published in a scientific journal named ‘Environmental Advance’ on 15 April.

The study stated that a lot of dangers including high temperatures, increase in salinity, deforestation, pollution, rise in the sea level, destruction of turtle’s abode, use of plastic, crisis of fresh water, sea erosion from tidal waves have arisen from the tourism.

Though the local population on the island is 10,000 several hundred thousand people stay there all round the year.

For the last two months, a new trouble has appeared on the island. There’s has been an infestation of highly harmful white flies there. These flies are destroying the forests on the island. Historically, there were more than a hundred species of trees.

Initiatives had been taken to protect the island three times before. The government backed down coming under pressure from the tourism businessmen. The island might be stripped of corals if there’s no initiative.

All of them except for the coconut and kewra trees have come to the verge of extinction in the last one decade. Around 300 coconut trees have died because of the white flies in the past few months.

When asked, emeritus professor at BRAC University Ainun Nishat told Prothom Alo that different countries adopt different initiatives to protect a unique island with this sort of biodiversity. For it takes thousands of years for an island like this to be formed.

However, the abuse from some tourists for a few decades can destroy that within just a couple of years. So, the government should put maximum priority for the protection of Saint Martin’s island.

Experts blame unplanned tourism for the current condition of Saint Martin. They say the crisis is growing even thicker because of the irresponsible behavior and environment-destroying entertainment of the seasonal tourists.

A couple enjoys the last sunset of 2021 at St. Martin Island. The picture was taken from 31 December.Sazid Hossain

The government had taken initiatives of controlling tourism to protect the island three times in the last one decade. The department of environment had also implemented a project to protect the island. However, the government stepped back from that position coming under pressure from the tourism businessmen.

The department of environment declared Saint Martin an Ecologically Critical Area (ECA) back in 1999 to protect the biodiversity. Lastly on 4 January 2023, according to the wildlife (conservation and security) act the environment ministry declared 1,743 square kilometres of area in the Bay of Bengal adjoining the Saint Martin’s island as reserved area.

Last of all, an initiative to control tourists on the Saint Martin’s island was taken in August 2020 to save the biodiversity there. On behalf of the government, research organisation Centre for Environmental and Geographical Information Services (CEGIS) was given the responsibility of conducting a survey.

After the study, the organisation stated that it is not ideal in any way to allow tourists to stay on the island at night. And, it would not be right to allow more than 1,250 tourists a day on the island during the tourism season in winter.

In this regard executive director of CEGIS Fida Abdullah told Prothom Alo, “It has been repeatedly proved in ours and other studies that there’s no alternative to controlling tourism to save the island. It won’t do if the government backs down coming under pressure from the tourism companies or from other reasons.”

The island is home to different types of wildlife including the near-extinct olive turtle, four species of dolphins and endangered species of birds.
A research paper on Saint Martin’s Island published in international journal ‘Ocean Science’ in September 2020 stated that the island can become completely stripped of coral by 2045.

The island is home to different types of wildlife including the near-extinct olive turtle, four species of dolphins and endangered species of birds.

Keeping this in mind, the department of environment issued a public notice on 2 January 2021. The notice imposed 14 restrictions including prohibition on holding barbecue dinners with bright lights on, shops, collecting stones, and riding any types of vehicles including motorbikes on the beach of Saint Martin’s island. However, the public notice was not implemented or monitored later.

Lastly in 2023, the ministry of environment, forest and climate change formulated a policy on 13 questions for the protection of biodiversity including restricting tourists on Saint Martin’s island and limiting the movement of tourist vessels on Teknaf-Saint Martin marine route.

The policy formulation committee had their last meeting titled ‘Protection of environment, ecology and biodiversity of Saint Martin’s Island and Sustainable Tourism Policy 2022’ at the then prime minister’s office on 23 June of the same year.

It was decided in the meeting that maximum 900 tourists will be permitted to visit the island a day through registration. Interested people would have to pay the government a tax of Tk 1,000 per person.

And, to stay the night at a hotel on the island they would have to pay Tk 2,000. Though the policy was supposed to be implemented in the next tourism season meaning this November, no one is able to visit Saint Martin now.

We want to save the island. It’s an asset to everyone in the country. If the tourists behave responsibly, this asset of the country could be saved.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser for the environment, forest and climate change ministry
After the interim government took charge, there arose an opposite campaign regarding the matter of taking an initiative to restrict tourism on Saint Martin’s island. Various campaigns including the establishment of a US military base there kept going around.

Last of all, it has been decided to limit tourist movement and stay on Saint Martin’s island for the next four months during a meeting of the advisers in the interim government last week. With this decision, tourists will be able to visit the island during day in November but won’t be able to stay the night.

Meanwhile in December and January, they would be able to stay the night there but, not more than 2,000 tourists a day would be allowed on the island then. Then in February, tourists would be barred from visiting the island altogether.

An organisation named ‘Alliance for development of environment and tourism on Saint Martin’s island in Cox’s Bazar’ has come forward in protest of that decision from the government.

Many leaders of the organisation have hotels on Saint Martin’s island. There are allegations that these hotels have been established illegally in the ecologically critical area.

Adviser for the environment, forest and climate change ministry Syeda Rizwana Hasan told Prothom Alo, “We want to save the island. It’s an asset to everyone in the country. If the tourists behave responsibly, this asset of the country would be saved.”​

 

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Sajek, Khagrachhari open to tourists after month-long restriction

The tourism restriction imposed in Sajek valley of Rangamati and Khagrachhari for over a month was lifted today

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Sajek, Khagrachhari open to tourists after month-long restriction

Photo: Anvil Chakma

The tourism restriction imposed in Sajek valley of Rangamati and Khagrachhari for over a month was lifted today.

Khagrachhari Deputy Commissioner Md Shahiduzzaman confirmed the development.

He said all tourist centres in Khagrachhari are now open to tourists. And Sajek Valley is also accessible via Khagrachhari district road, the DC added.

This reopening is expected to revitalise tourism in the area, benefiting businesses that heavily rely on visitors.

The restriction, initially enforced on September 25 due to violence in Khagrachhari and Rangamati on September 19 and 20, was expanded to a complete tourism pause on October 8 across all three hill districts. This prolonged closure took its toll on the local economy, particularly in tourism sector.

The Sajek Cottage Owners Association reported that their 120 resorts and cottages were mostly empty. Many employees were forced to leave due to lack of work. Losses to the sector are estimated around Tk 15 crore.

Ananta Bikash Tripura, general secretary of the Khagrachhari Residential Hotel Owners Association, welcomed the reopening. "Many people's lives are linked to the tourism sector here. With the halt in tourist activities, many became unemployed. The reopening brings relief and hope for recovery."​

 

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Tourists welcome, but Saint Martin’s remains deserted

Saint Martin’s Island officially opened for tourism at the start of November. Yet, there is not a single holidaymaker in sight as tour operators await permission to ferry visitors between the island and the mainland.

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Tourists welcome, but Saint Martin’s remains deserted

Tourists have been officially allowed to visit the sandy shores of Saint Martin’s Island since the start of November, but the beaches around Bangladesh’s only coral island remain largely deserted. Visitors will not be allowed to stay on the island overnight in November due to government restrictions, which locals say is one of the reasons for the lack of holidaymakers. PHOTO: COLLECTED

Saint Martin's Island officially opened for tourism at the start of November. Yet, there is not a single holidaymaker in sight as tour operators await permission to ferry visitors between the island and the mainland.

Alongside this, various other issues have also emerged.

Recent disruptions in the electricity supply process have piled misery on the 12,000 people who reside on the small island off the southeast coast of the country.

Additionally, there are frequent disruptions in naval communications used by tour operators due to the cross-border conflict in neighbouring Myanmar.

These factors have created an air of uncertainty that has left residents of Bangladesh's only coral island, most of whom rely on the hospitality industry for their livelihoods, in a bind.

In previous years, tourists were officially barred from visiting the island for six months of the year, only being allowed to visit from November to April.

However, in late October this year, the interim government decided to allow tourism for just three months of the year as part of efforts to protect the native biodiversity.

Tourists will now be allowed to visit the island in November but will not be permitted to stay overnight. In December and January, tourists can stay overnight, but the number of visitors on the island will be capped at 2,000 per day.

Hossainul Islam Bahadur, secretary of the cruise ship owners' association that operates along the Teknaf-Saint Martin's Island route, said they had applied to the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority for permission to ply tourist ships to the island from jetties in Teknaf and Inani. But their efforts have not yet yielded results.

"They are asking us to get permission from the Department of Environment (DoE), so we are trying to do that," he said.

"We will not move our tourist vessels until we get permission."

Even if the permission is granted, tourists remain reluctant to travel to the island without the scope to stay overnight as the two-way journey currently takes around 10-12 hours.

"Plying tourist ships from Teknaf to Saint Martin's is risky due to the conflict in bordering areas," said Shibliu Azam Koreshi, owner of St Martin Resort.

"But the journey from Cox's Bazar takes at least 5-6 hours, so people will not be interested in coming to the island if they have to return the same day."

He added that the government's decision was weighing heavily on the minds of residents.

"The whole tourism business, as well as our investment, has fallen into uncertainty due to the government's decision. The worst sufferers will be the island's inhabitants, 80 percent of whom are dependent on tourism," Koreshi lamented.

Tayeb Ullah, who runs his family's resort on the island, said the education of his younger brother and sister as well as their family's livelihood were tied to the income generated from tourists.

"We are deeply concerned about the decision to curb tourism. We survive through the months when tourism is banned using the income generated from holidaymakers during other times of the year. Tourism is the main source of income for locals. If it is restricted, most of us will find it hard to live a decent life".

Abdur Aziz, another island resident, said that the pre-paid meter recharge facility that allows customers to buy electricity from the only source of power on the island -- a solar plant operated by Blue Marin Energy Ltd -- had been suspended for a week until Friday, leaving many on the island without electricity.

Tayeb added: "On Friday, the electricity supply shut off completely. After people agitated, Blue Marin Energy restored electricity on Saturday morning."

Officials of Blue-Marine Energy said the situation was caused by a problem with the server software related the project, controlled by Scoob Technology Ltd. The officials added that the issue had been resolved.​

 

[Saif]

What needs to be done to visit St Martin’s Island

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has formed a joint committee to regulate tourists and authorised vessels in Saint Martin’s Island.

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What needs to be done to visit St Martin’s Island
Staff Correspondent &
Correspondent
Cox’s Bazar and Teknaf
Updated: 20 Nov 2024, 23: 02

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has formed a joint committee to regulate tourists and authorised vessels in Saint Martin’s Island.

The tourists will have to abide by a set of rules and follow a registration process for visiting Saint Martin’s Island. The newly formed joint committee will look after the entire process.

The committee was formed as per the order of senior assistant secretary of the ministry Sabrina Rahman on Tuesday. The upazila nirbahi officer (UNO) of Cox’s Bazar Sadar and Teknaf upazila has been made the convener of the committee and deputy director of the Department of Environment in Cox’s Bazar has been made the member secretary of the committee.

Representatives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh Tourism Board in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh Coast Guard and the Tourist Police in Cox’s Bazar will be the members of the committee.

The letter containing the order also describes the entire process to visit Saint Martin’s Island. It says the tourists will have to get the travel pass at the entry point (the place where the passengers will board the ship) through registration using the app developed by the Bangladesh Tourism Board. The committee will ensure that the passengers carrying a travel pass board on an authorised vessel.

A ban has been imposed on the polythene and one-time polythene products on the authorised vehicles. The committee will be strict in this regard.

There will be records on registers regarding the hotels where the tourists are to stay after reaching the island. There will be billboards regarding what is allowed and not allowed for the tourists during the trip at the entry point of Saint Martin’s Island.

Cox’s Bazar office of the Environmental Department will coordinate the entire process. There will be options to further extend the committee for the sake of the work.

Confirming the formation of the committee, Cox’s Bazar additional district magistrate (ADM) Nizam Uddin Ahmed said the members of the committee had already started their work.

When asked, assistant commissioner (AC, land) on additional charge Teknaf UNO and convener of the committee Arif Ullah Nizami told Prothom Alo that he received the copy of the order today. The decision regarding the date of resuming tourism in Saint Martin’s will be taken in consultation with the higher authorities and other members of the committee.

Arif Ullah Nizami said after several days the Myanmar Military and the Arakan Army restarted exchanging fire from Tuesday afternoon, which continued till the afternoon today. There have been incidents of opening fire targeting the Saint Martin’s bound boats from the other side of river Naf.

In this situation, the committee is reconsidering their decision to resume tourism and movement of passenger vessels along river Naf. The committee is prioritising the security of the tourists. They are also searching for an alternative route at the same time.

Relevant sources say on 22 October, the environment ministry decided to limit tourists in Saint Martin's Island in Cox's Bazar during the peak season aiming to protect the country's lone coral island from environmental pollution caused by growing tourists.

Following that, a notification signed by deputy secretary Asma Shaheen published 28 October mentioned about implementing five things.

First, any vessel will have to take permission from the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) and the environment ministry for movement along the Saint Martin’s route. Only after that, the Cox’s Bazar deputy commissioner will be able to issue permission for Saint Martin’s bound vessels and ships.

The notification further said the tourists won’t be allowed to stay at night on the island in November. However, the tourists will be allowed to stay over in the island in the next two months. However, the number of tourists cannot exceed 2,000 a day. Besides, there will be restrictions on turning on the lights at night, creating noise pollution on the island and holding barbecue parties.

However, the movement of the island bound ships is yet to be resumed. The island didn’t receive any tourists in November. The investors of the tourism sector are now divided on the government’s decision.

Former union parishad chairman of Saint Martin’s Island Firoz Khan told Prothom Alo, “Usually tourists start visiting the island from the end of October every year. However, there were problems in running island bound ships and vessels due to the firing in the Rakhine state of Myanmar on the other side of river Naf. Fire was opened targeting the island bound vessels too. After that, an alternative route from the Inani Jetty of the Marine Drive in Cox’s Bazar was introduced. The ships and vessels moved along this new route for several months. However, the residents of the island are frustrated this time as vessel movement hasn’t started this year as yet.”

The incumbent chairman of Saint Martin’s Island Nur Ahmed said, “The residents of the island are not being able to move through trawlers and speedboats even for emergency purposes. Even the residents of the island now have to take permission from the authorities for movement.”​

 

[Saif]

From gravel beds to tourists’ treasure

A couple of decades ago, Panchagarh, the northernmost district of Bangladesh, was primarily known for its abundance of gravel beds. With thousands of acres of land devoted to digging for the resource, the backbone of the region’s rural economy was based on those natural resources.

www.thedailystar.net

From gravel beds to tourists’ treasure
Tourism transforms Panchagarh’s economy

A couple of decades ago, Panchagarh, the northernmost district of Bangladesh, was primarily known for its abundance of gravel beds. With thousands of acres of land devoted to digging for the resource, the backbone of the region's rural economy was based on those natural resources.

However, memories of those days are now found largely in the history books. Panchagarh has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a prime destination for tourism and trade, attracting travellers from Bangladesh and beyond.

Historically, the region did not appeal to visitors due to limited infrastructure and long travel times from the capital of Dhaka.

However, significant developments in the past three decades, from improved road networks to enhanced connectivity, have reshaped the district's fortunes.

Encircled by India on three sides, Panchagarh's location along the lower foothills of the Himalayas offers unique weather and stunning sights, only contributing to its growing appeal.

The region's unique topography offers breathtaking mountain views, while winter's earlier arrival in the district has also made it a seasonal draw for tourists.

In the cool season, temperatures drop as low as 5 degrees Celsius, a welcome relief from the heat in most other parts of the nation.

In terms of natural beauty, one of the most captivating attractions is the view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak.

While the mountain is about 160 kilometres away, its snow-capped splendour can be seen from various spots in Panchagarh between October and November, when the skies are clear.

Every year, thousands of tourists gather along the banks of the Mahananda River in Tetulia, one of the best vantage points, to catch this stunning view.

Beyond the mountain views, Panchagarh is now known for another unique sight: tulip fields.

The favourable climate has allowed farmers to cultivate these vibrant flowers, a rarity in Bangladesh.

Since the first tulips were harvested in 2022, blooming fields have drawn visitors from across the country, marking yet another achievement in the district's growing tourism appeal.

Tea cultivation is also a major part of the local economy.

Panchagarh is the only place in Bangladesh with flatland tea gardens, a feat made possible by the region's elevation from sea level. Tea estates began developing in the 90s, and the district now boasts over 50 estates spanning approximately 10,000 acres.

The tea industry here not only generates revenue but has also bolstered Panchagarh's identity as a producer of world-class, organic teas.

However, although the focus has largely shifted, stone and sand extraction remain a part of the economy, supporting the livelihoods of around 50,000 people.

Sand collected from the rivers, especially fine sand from Bhajanpur, is in high demand for construction projects nationwide, providing a steady source of income for local families.

The region's pride in its humble roots and affinity for geology also shine through in the fact that Panchagarh is home to Bangladesh's only rock museum, which houses ancient rocks as well as artefacts.

For history buffs, the region offers numerous old sites, including the Mirza Shah Mosque, Golokdham Temple and the ruins of Vitorgarh, an ancient fort city built around the 5th century.

Panchagarh's transformation has been supported by the expansion of accommodations and transport options.

With direct bus services from Dhaka, a journey now takes around 8-10 hours.

The addition of trains, along with the government and private sector's interest in hospitality, has significantly improved lodging facilities in the area.

Entrepreneurs and NGOs have opened new hotels, restaurants, and homestays, creating more options for tourists and allowing them to experience local cuisine and the rural landscape.

The district's economic and cultural transformation has made it more than just a viewing point for Kanchenjunga.

It has become a rich blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and economic opportunity.

As Prof Tuhin Wadud, head of the Bangla department at Begum Rokeya University, noted: "Panchagarh's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is a hidden gem that has yet to reach its full potential."

He emphasised the need for a comprehensive master plan from the government to develop the region's tourism and tea sectors, making them even more attractive to international visitors.

Panchagarh's journey from a hub of stone extraction to a centre of tourism and trade highlights its potential for growth and development. This shift is not only a testament to the district's resilience but also a promising vision for the future, where nature, culture, and commerce come together to shape a vibrant local economy, he added.

Atiqur Rahman had come to visit Tetulia from Khulna and enjoy the views of Kanchenjunga with his friends.

In what was his third visit in the past 5 years, he finally found success and caught a glimpse of the peak.

He pointed out several reasons for the district's appeal, chiefly a mix of natural and historical attractions.

Besides, Kanchenjunga, the hills of Darjeeling and Siliguri are also visible, he said.​

 

[Saif]

Restrictions won’t harm St Martin's tourism industry, says Adviser Hassan Ariff

The recent restriction on tourists to St. Martin's Island will not negatively impact the tourism industry, said Aviation and Tourism Adviser AF Hassan Ariff on Friday. Speaking at the 'Asia International Trade Fair' at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, Ariff responded to concerns

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Restrictions won’t harm St Martin's tourism industry, says Adviser Hassan Ariff
UNB
Published :
Nov 22, 2024 21:57
Updated :
Nov 22, 2024 21:57

The recent restriction on tourists to St. Martin's Island will not negatively impact the tourism industry, said Aviation and Tourism Adviser AF Hassan Ariff on Friday.

Speaking at the 'Asia International Trade Fair' at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, Ariff responded to concerns raised by journalists about the restrictions.

He explained that controlling tourist numbers is a common practice in many countries to preserve the environment and ensure sustainability at popular tourist destinations.

"St. Martin's is the only coral island in Bangladesh, and like any other tourist spot, it has a specific capacity," he said.

"Imagine a 10-bed hotel trying to accommodate 30 guests-everything would be chaotic, from the washrooms to the kitchens. Similarly, the island has already suffered due to overcrowding. Limiting the number of visitors will help prevent further damage," he added.

Ariff highlighted that the excessive number of tourists, along with the rise in plastic waste, has taken a toll on the island's corals, which are now at a critical stage.

He assured that the government is committed to preserving the island by investing in renovation efforts and imposing limits on tourist numbers to ensure the island's long-term viability.

The move is part of a broader effort to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring that St. Martin's remains a vibrant destination for future generations.

In response to a question about potential rehabilitation for affected businessmen, Hassan Ariff suggested that those involved in tourism operations should conduct a survey to assess the island's capacity before bringing in tourists.

He emphasized that simply bringing large groups without considering the island's limits would not contribute to sustainable tourism. "Just as playing loud music isn't entertainment, gathering a group and using a microphone isn't proper tourism," he said.
​

 

[Saif]

Tourism in Cox’s Bazar gaining momentum

With temperatures around Bangladesh dropping ahead of winter, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions around Cox’s Bazar are being crowded by visitors.

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Tourism in Cox’s Bazar gaining momentum

Cox’s Bazar, the longest unbroken sea beach in the world, was relatively quiet even a few days ago, but now the air is alive with the bustle of holidaymakers. Photo: Mokammel Shuvo

With temperatures around Bangladesh dropping ahead of winter, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions around Cox's Bazar are being crowded by visitors.

The longest unbroken beach in the world was relatively quiet even a few days ago, but now the air is alive with the bustle of holidaymakers.

This has breathed fresh life into the businesses of tom-tom riders, photographers, jet ski riders, horse riders and roaming vendors that dot the beachside city.

The local tourism industry has been left out in the lurch since July, when student-led protests against the Awami League government caused disruptions in transport.

Since then, political uncertainty and inclement weather have repeatedly led to disruptions in tourist movement.

This prolonged lack of visitors to the country's premier tourist destination plunged the local economy into a sort of recession, industry insiders said.

Now, with crisp wintry winds filling the air, business appears to have come back on track, bringing smiles to the many big and small stakeholders.

They now expect plentiful business, especially with many students set to get holidays after examinations in the winter.

Akram Hossain, who takes tourists along to ride the waves on a jet ski, said there are around 40 jet skis along the beach. Most earn Tk 15,000 to Tk 20,000 per day if they find an adequate number of customers.

He was beaming, saying that the brisk business he was enjoying had already earned him a Tk 700 bonus.

Another smiling face belonged to Saiful, a horse rider at the Shughandah beach.

He said they earn Tk 1,500 to Tk 1,800 per day from offering rides on local horses while rides on imported foreign breeds can fetch over Tk 5,000 per day.

For the past few months, they could earn only Tk 300 to Tk 400 per day he lamented.

Nazmul Hossain said he and his family had come to enjoy their vacation just prior to the peak season as he was concerned that costs would escalate when business was in full swing.

Abul Kasim Sikdar, president of the Cox's Bazar Hotel Motel Resort Owners' Association, said: "Every day around 30,000 to 35,000 tourists are visiting Cox's Bazar. But even more are expected to arrive after the end of the examinations in December."

He hoped for good business in December, January and February.

"A tourism fair with attractive cultural programmes will kick off possibly in mid-December. The tourists will surely enjoy that fair," he said.

He added that the law-and-order situation is much better now.

Many hotels and resorts are also giving discounts to tourists this month, he said.​

 

[Saif]

HC upholds govt decision to limit tourism at St Martin's Island

The High Court (HC) on Tuesday upheld a government decision to limit tourism on the Saint Martin's Island citing environment conservation after dismissing a writ petition filed by a local, who mentioned job shortages due to the verdict. The HC bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Mubina Asa

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

HC upholds govt decision to limit tourism at St Martin's Island
FE REPORT
Published :
Dec 04, 2024 08:54
Updated :
Dec 04, 2024 08:54

The High Court (HC) on Tuesday upheld a government decision to limit tourism on the Saint Martin's Island citing environment conservation after dismissing a writ petition filed by a local, who mentioned job shortages due to the verdict.

The HC bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Mubina Asaf passed the order after hearing on the writ petition filed by one Mohammad Abdul Malek, who is a resident of Saint Martin.

The writ petition sought withdrawal of the government decision restricting the number of tourists on the island.

Deputy Attorney General Mahfuz Bin Yousuf told reporters that the government's decision to limit tourism in Saint Martin's Island will remain effective following the HC order.

The writ petitioner's lawyer Mohammad Sultan Mahmud said the HC passed the order saying, "The government is relaxing the restriction on tourism on the island."

The government imposed tourism restriction on October 28 for a few months as part of its efforts to ensure a considerate public attitude for the environment of the tourist spot, he added.

The decision permitted tourists on Saint Martin's Island, but did not allow them to stay during the nights in November. However, it allows overnight stays in December and January with the condition that the island houses a maximum of 2,000 tourists per day.

The island will remain closed to tourists in February, when cleaning and conservation initiatives will be conducted.

Employment opportunities for people in the island became extremely narrow due to the government decision, Mohammad Abdul Malek said in the writ petition. Many residence of the island became jobless as a result and are living in inhuman conditions, the petition also read.​