The government is trying to reshape and promote the tourism industry for the socio-economic enhancement of the country. In order to achieve that quest, the government under the able leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken various initiatives. The tourism master plan being prepared by the Bangladesh Tourism Board under the supervision of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism will include a detailed plan for the development of coastal areas and sea tourism in the country. When the tourism master plan is completed, tourism will open new horizons in blue economy.
In order to attract tourists, various development activities are underway for the development of coastal and sea tourism as per the directions of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Work is underway to set up Naf Tourism Park, Sabrang Tourism Park and Sonadia Eco Tourism Park in Cox's Bazar. The three tourist parks will create 200,000 jobs and 2 billion a year in economic activity.
The government needs to facilitate the
inflow of FDI to exploit the full potential
of the country's blue economy
In addition, Cox's Bazar Airport is being upgraded to international standards, construction of railway line to Ghumdhum, Sheikh Hasina Tower at Khurushkul in Cox's Bazar, ethnic village and intensive tourist zone are being constructed. Various initiatives have been taken to develop eco-tourism based on the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world. Work is underway to operate an international marine cruise.
Only a few numbers of blue economy sectors with the likes of fisheries and aquaculture, port facilities, ship breaking and breaking has been explored in the country. Also, most of these sectors are still following traditional means. So, there still remains a large number of openings as well as challenges for exploring a large number of blue economy sectors, which will safeguard mangrove and ocean grass, address environmental changes, manage carbon discharge, and introduce innovative technology for further growth to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals.
Blue economy can also be increased by inviting foreign direct investment (FDI) through international standard hotels in Cox’s Bazar and Kuakata. So, the government needs to facilitate the inflow of FDI to exploit the full potential of the country's blue economy.
