New plan to make Patenga beach cleaner, safer and more tourist-friendly

The Chattogram district administration has taken a series of initiatives to make Patenga Sea Beach cleaner, safer and more tourist-friendly, including installing modern dustbins and wash blocks, reducing excess shops and revamping the beach’s appearance in harmony with its natural surroundings.

The initiatives were announced today (29 August) during a cleanliness and awareness campaign at Patenga beach under the ‘Nandonik Chattogram’ programme.

The campaign was organised by the Beach Management Committee with support from the district administration.

The programme began with a rally, followed by the distribution of awareness leaflets among tourists and businesses. Government officials, volunteers and citizens also cleaned the beach walkway and surrounding areas.

During the drive, officials inspected several shops and instructed businesses to dispose of waste in designated bins. Shop owners were also asked to encourage tourists not to litter.

The district administration said shops at the beach would have to meet prescribed standards for cleanliness, sanitation and food quality. Businesses failing to meet the requirements will be served notices and face action, while the number of shops operating beyond the required level will be reduced.

Authorities are also focusing on hygiene and food safety at hotels and restaurants along the beach. Discussions have been held with the owners’ association, and strict action will be taken against establishments that fail to maintain the required standards, according to the district administration.

To strengthen security at the beach, authorities are planning to deploy Ansar members and may increase their number if necessary.

Steps will also be taken to discourage tourists from entering the sea in violation of instructions from tourist police and security personnel.

The district administration is also planning training for security personnel working at the beach to improve their conduct towards tourists. Written complaints of misconduct or irregularities will be investigated and action taken where necessary.

The cleanliness initiative involves the Chattogram City Corporation, Chattogram Development Authority (CDA), police, Beach Management Committee, environmental organisations and volunteers alongside the district administration.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah said the goal was not only to keep Patenga beach clean but also to develop it into an attractive and sustainable tourist destination in the long term.

“This requires responsible participation from all stakeholders, including tourists, businesses and relevant institutions,” he said.

The district administration launched cleanliness activities across Chattogram on 25 July under the ‘Nandonik Chattogram’ programme.

Following cleanliness drives at government offices, rooftops and premises, the programme is being gradually extended to educational institutions, ponds and other important public gathering places.