The Environment Adviser has called for stronger efforts to keep the beaches of Kuakata and Cox’s Bazar clean during the busy tourist season. As more people visit these coastal spots, the amount of waste left behind is growing. Without action, the adviser warned, this pollution could harm marine life, damage the environment, and hurt Bangladesh’s tourism image. At a recent meeting in Cox’s Bazar, officials, environmentalists, and tourism operators agreed that keeping the beaches clean should be a top priority. People frequently discard plastic bottles, food wrappers, and various types of litter. High tides and wind push this litter into the sea, where it threatens fish, turtles, and birds. It also spoils the natural beauty that draws tourists in the first place. The adviser praised earlier efforts, such as cleanup drives and public awareness campaigns, that helped reduce beach pollution. In Cox’s Bazar, hundreds of volunteers collected several tons of garbage in just a few days. In Kuakata, local workers were hired to sweep the beach daily. These steps made the beaches cleaner and more enjoyable for visitors. However, he warned that short-term efforts are not enough. To make lasting change, he suggested a long-term plan with better waste collection. This includes placing more garbage bins along the beach, using mobile dustbins for busy areas, and setting up daily cleanup schedules. The adviser also recommended building eco-friendly restrooms and food stalls with proper waste disposal. Community support is key. Local groups, businesses, and officials should work together in a task force. This team would assign roles, monitor the beaches, and involve students from nearby schools in beach care activities. The adviser said teaching young people about beach cleanliness will help protect the environment in the future. Tour operators were urged to follow a “Clean Beach Charter,” encouraging tourists to throw trash in bins or take it home. Hotels and resorts can help by offering reusable water bottles and avoiding single-use plastics. The adviser also suggested creating a simple app where people can report dirty spots on the beach. Everyone at the meeting agreed: it’s better to stop pollution before it starts. Beaches that are clean draw in more visitors, boost the economy of the area, and help preserve the environment. When beaches are clean, sea animals return, and sunset views are more beautiful. With teamwork, better planning, and public support, Kuakata and Cox’s Bazar can become examples of eco-friendly tourism. By acting now, Bangladesh can protect its coastline for future generations.
