Cox's Bazar closed for tourists
The Cox's Bazar district administration has announced closure of all recreational centers in the district, including the sea beach, until 14 April, in an effort to refrain the coronavirus from spreading.
During the period, no public gathering or rally can be held in the district. But hotels, motels and restaurants are allowed to operate complying with the hygiene rules
The decision was taken at a meeting this evening, Prothom Alo reports quoting Md Alamin al Parvej, the additional district magistrate.
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The closure will take effect from today midnight. The operation of tourist ships to St. Martin's Island from Cox's Bazar and Teknaf will also remain suspended during the period.
Abul Kashem Sikder, general secretary of the Cox's Bazar Hotel-Motel Guesthouse Owners' Association, said there are now at least 30,000-40,000 tourists in Cox's Bazar.
To find a way for the tourists' departure, the association leaders will sit in a meeting with the district administration on Friday, he added.
According to District Civil Surgeon Mahbubur Rahman, the coronavirus situation was under control in Cox's Bazar until February.
Nowadays, 30 to 45 people are regularly being diagnosed with coronavirus, what was 3 to 4 in February.
Zillur Rahman, superintendent of Cox's Bazar tourist police, said no one will be allowed on the beach from today midnight. Police personnel are vigilant to enforce the authorities' decision.
