Government rethinks coastal curbs as Cox's Bazar tourism masterplan takes shape

Finance minister says hotels, resorts and entertainment facilities would be developed in tourism zones while ensuring environmental protection

The government is preparing an integrated masterplan to transform Cox's Bazar into an international and regional tourism hub.

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Thursday said longstanding coastal development restrictions are under review.

Speaking at the Secretariat, he said the government was reconsidering the 50-metre and 500-metre environmental setback rules for coastal development.

He said tourism zones would require hotels, motels, resorts and entertainment facilities, while environmental safeguards would be maintained.

The minister said work on Cox's Bazar's international airport was progressing, rail connectivity had been established and road links from Chattogram were being upgraded.

The government aims to integrate the infrastructure to build a modern digital tourism city.

He said Cox's Bazar would become a key growth hub in Bangladesh's goal of building a $1 trillion economy by 2034.

Later, at a meeting with Finance Division officials, Khosru urged efforts to overcome negative public perceptions of bureaucracy in budget implementation.