Paradise lost: Cox’s Bazar tourists shocked by wastes at sea

Garbage at the Coxs Bazar sea beach shocks tourists.

By--Dipak Sharma

Cox’s Bazar, July 2 - What was meant to be a rejuvenating seaside escape has turned into a nightmare for many tourists in Cox’s Bazar, as visitors discover that the crystal waters of the world’s longest natural sea beach are being fouled by untreated sewage.

Every day, thousands flock to the iconic shoreline in search of sun, sand and serenity. But this season, instead of wading into refreshing waves, visitors are being greeted by the stench of waste and sights of pollution. And they’re not staying silent.

A number of tourists have expressed shock and disgust after finding human waste mixing into the sea, especially near the popular Sugandha, Laboni and Kolatoli points. Outraged and disappointed, many are now cutting their trips short.

Local residents allege that several hotels and motels are discharging raw sewage directly into the sea. Makeshift drainage systems have reportedly been dug behind these establishments — most notably between the Sugandha and Kolatoli areas, including near the Divine Hotel, connecting straight to residential sewage lines.

These unauthorised channels are allowing human waste to flow freely into the Bay of Bengal, without any form of treatment or environmental consideration.

The result? Polluted seawater, unbearable odours and a growing backlash.

“I came here with my wife and children to enjoy the beach,” said Mohammad Abdu Samad, a tourist from Narayanganj. “But once I saw sewage mixing with the water, we didn’t dare go in.”

Haidar Ali, who travelled from Savar, echoed the frustration. “The stench is horrible. Forget bathing, even walking along the beach has become difficult!” he said.

Environmentalists Raise Alarm

Environmentalists have strongly condemned the unchecked sewage dumping, calling it a crisis for both public health and the country’s tourism image.

“This is extremely unfortunate,” said Dipak Sharma Dipu, President of the Cox’s Bazar Forest and Environment Conservation Council. “Dumping untreated sewage into the sea through artificially created drains cannot be accepted. It’s not just polluting the water but also spreading foul odours and damaging the beach’s ecosystem.”

Moazzem Hossain, Chairman of Save the Nature, was equally scathing. “This has been going on for far too long. Those responsible for dumping sewage into the ocean and putting tourists and the environment at risk must be held accountable.”

Authorities Respond

In response to growing concerns, Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Salahuddin admitted he had been unaware of the problem, but pledged immediate action.

“Cox’s Bazar Development Authority, Municipality, and the Department of Environment will investigate the matter and take necessary steps,” he told UNB.

As the tourist season continues at full swing, there are mounting fears that unless swift, decisive action is taken, the pollution could cause lasting damage, not only to the fragile marine ecosystem but also to Cox’s Bazar’s standing as a premier travel destination.- UNB