Kuakata, rising along the vast blue expanse of the Bay of Bengal on Bangladesh’s southern coast, is not merely a geographical location it is a name synonymous with immense potential, a reflection of an unfinished dream. Here, the sky and sea merge into a seamless horizon; here, the rare spectacle of both sunrise and sunset graces the same shoreline; here, sprawling sandy beaches and rows of whispering casuarina trees create a landscape of extraordinary beauty. Kuakata is, without doubt, a gift of nature. Yet, despite this natural wealth, a pressing question remains: why has it not yet reached the stature of a world-class tourism city?
Today, Kuakata stands at a critical juncture. On one side lie ambitious development plans; on the other, the hard arithmetic of reality. Between these two forces, a fundamental question persists can Kuakata truly emerge as Bangladesh’s next international-standard tourism hub, or will it once again fade into the long history of unrealized promises?
To seek answers, one must turn to recent policy discussions. Debates in the National Parliament have brought renewed attention to Kuakata’s potential. During a parliamentary session, Member of Parliament for Patuakhali-4, ABM Mosharraf Hossain, underscored the strategic importance of the region. He noted that Kuakata is not merely a tourist destination but a strategically significant zone connected to a naval base, a cantonment, and the Payra Port. The construction of an airport, he argued, could accelerate not only tourism but also broader economic activity.
In response, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman articulated the government’s position with notable clarity. He emphasized that large-scale projects such as airport construction must be evaluated not on aspiration alone, but on strict economic viability. Public funds, he asserted, should not be allocated to ventures that fail to demonstrate long-term profitability. This perspective reflects a pragmatic development philosophy. At the same time, he left the door open for opportunity: if private entities show interest in operating flights to Kuakata, the government would extend necessary infrastructural support. This signals an investment-friendly policy framework, where the state acts as an enabler rather than the sole financier—an approach aligned with modern economic principles.
Another key aspect of the Prime Minister’s remarks is the emphasis on planned and sustainable development. He stressed that development must ensure economic feasibility, investment security, and long-term sustainability. This reflects not merely a project-specific view, but a broader, integrated development vision.
In line with this approach, several initiatives concerning Kuakata have been highlighted. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism is currently working on a “National Tourism Master Plan” aimed at guiding the sector’s long-term growth. Within this framework, Kuakata’s natural beauty and infrastructure development have been given special importance. Additionally, a feasibility study is underway for a project titled “Development of Basic Facilities at Kuakata and Patenga-Anwara Sea Beaches,” which is expected to bring visible improvements to tourism amenities in the region.
Another notable initiative involves a comprehensive plan under the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, encompassing seven upazilas—Galachipa, Kalapara, Rangabali, Barguna Sadar, Patharghata, Amtali, and Taltoli. The project, titled “Payra-Kuakata Comprehensive Plan Focusing on Eco-Tourism,” is currently in the process of developing an Action Area Plan. If implemented effectively, this initiative could transform Kuakata into an environmentally sustainable economic zone, rather than just a conventional tourist destination. The Prime Minister has expressed optimism that this plan will accelerate tourism development and contribute to the overall progress of Kalapara upazila.
These initiatives are undoubtedly promising. However, a persistent question remains: will these plans be realized in practice? Experience suggests that while Bangladesh does not suffer from a lack of planning, it often struggles with implementation. This is where accountable governance, defined timelines, and robust monitoring mechanisms become essential. Each project must be regularly evaluated, and accountability must be ensured in cases of failure. Development should not remain confined to policy documents—it must translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Kuakata’s development must also be viewed within a broader economic context. If integrated effectively with Payra Port, coastal highways, and potential air connectivity, the region could evolve into a powerful economic corridor. In such a scenario, Kuakata would not only serve tourism but also emerge as a hub for industry, trade, and investment.
Yet, regardless of how compelling the plans may be, the crux lies in execution. Over the years, numerous promises have been made regarding Kuakata’s development, but on-the-ground progress has often been limited. Improvements in roads, tourism infrastructure, electricity, and water supply remain uneven and, in many cases, slow.
To overcome this, a culture of accountability and strong monitoring must be established. Clear timelines should be set for every project, with regular assessments of progress. Without accountability, development efforts risk remaining ineffective. The ultimate goal must be to ensure that development brings visible, meaningful change to people’s lives.
Kuakata’s natural beauty provides a strong foundation for its emergence as a global tourism destination. However, nature alone is not enough. Modern infrastructure, high-quality services, and security are equally essential. Without international-standard hotels and resorts, quality restaurants, entertainment facilities, healthcare services, and robust security systems, attracting foreign tourists will remain challenging.
In the digital age, tourism promotion plays a pivotal role. To place Kuakata on the global tourism map, modern marketing strategies must be adopted. Social media platforms, YouTube documentaries, international travel blogs, and online booking systems can effectively showcase its beauty to the world. Institutions such as the Bangladesh Tourism Board must take a more active role in this regard.
One of the greatest challenges to development, however, lies in environmental conservation.
Kuakata is a sensitive coastal ecosystem, where ecological balance is crucial. Unregulated hotel construction, plastic pollution, deforestation, and damage to coastal biodiversity could jeopardize long-term sustainability. Therefore, every development initiative must adhere to environmentally responsible policies.
Globally, many successful tourism destinations are built on the concept of sustainable tourism. Kuakata must follow the same path adopting solar energy, modern waste management systems, eco-friendly construction, and biodiversity conservation practices to ensure balanced development.
The strategic significance of Kuakata further strengthens its potential. Its proximity to Payra Port positions it as a candidate for a future economic corridor. With integrated road, water, and air transport systems, Kuakata could become the gateway to Bangladesh’s southern region serving not only tourism but also trade, industry, and exports.
To realize this vision, an investment-friendly environment is essential. Attracting both domestic and foreign investors will require policy stability, ease of doing business, tax incentives, and strong security systems. Establishing Special Economic Zones (ESEZ) could significantly enhance Kuakata’s appeal as an investment destination.
Equally important is human resource development. Without skilled manpower, tourism growth cannot be sustained. Local communities must be trained in tourism management, hospitality services, guiding, and language skills. This will not only create employment but also ensure that local people become active stakeholders in development.
Integrating local culture and heritage into tourism presents another significant opportunity. The lifestyle, festivals, and handicrafts of the Rakhine community could offer unique attractions for visitors. Preserving and promoting this cultural diversity would enrich Kuakata’s tourism landscape.
Past experiences, however, offer a clear lesson development cannot be achieved through promises alone; it requires effective execution. Despite numerous announcements, implementation gaps have eroded public confidence. Restoring that trust demands visible progress.
Alongside government efforts, private sector participation is crucial. Large-scale projects can be executed through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models, reducing the burden on the state while accelerating development.
Ultimately, Kuakata’s development is not just a tourism initiative it is a key to the broader advancement of Bangladesh’s southern region. By integrating tourism, fisheries, ports, transport, and small industrial sectors, a robust economic framework can be built.
Global examples demonstrate how coastal tourism can transform economies. From Australia’s Bondi Beach to Brazil’s Copacabana, Thailand’s Phuket, Indonesia’s Bali, Dubai’s Jumeirah, Spain’s Costa del Sol, Greece’s Santorini, the United States’ Waikiki, and Mexico’s Cancun each illustrates how strategic planning, infrastructure, skilled manpower, and strong marketing can turn coastal regions into global brands.
In this context, there is a clear call to the current government: carefully analyze these successful models and adopt a realistic, time-bound roadmap for Kuakata. It must be envisioned not merely as a tourist destination but as an integrated economic zone.
Above all, environmental sustainability must remain the highest priority. Kuakata is not just a tourism asset it is a fragile coastal ecosystem that demands thoughtful, long-term planning. Simultaneously, large-scale investment through public-private partnerships is essential to elevate it to international standards.
In an increasingly competitive global tourism landscape, Kuakata must advance through coordinated and forward-looking initiatives. Simplifying visa processes, implementing strategic international promotion, adopting modern digital marketing, and ensuring a safe, reliable environment for visitors will be key to establishing it as a premier destination in South Asia.
A clear direction for the sustainable development of Kuakata emerges from the perspectives of distinguished experts. Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Chairman of the University Grants Commission and a renowned academic and researcher, believes that without the integration of research-based planning and skilled human resources, the long-term development of this region will not be successful. He also emphasizes that environmental conservation and prioritizing climate risks are equally essential. Advocate Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin, Administrator of Barishal City Corporation and a prominent education advocate, considers the participation of local communities—especially women and youth as the fundamental foundation of development. On the other hand, Professor Dr. S.M. Hemayet Jahan, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Patuakhali Science and Technology University, stresses the importance of data-driven and research-based planning. At the same time, Mahamuda Begum Pakhi, Head of the Bangla Department at Nalchity Government College and a poet and literary figure, highlights that preserving Kuakata’s uniqueness requires integrating local culture and heritage into tourism.
Taken together, these perspectives suggest that only the integrated application of economic strategy, environmental protection, research, and cultural preservation can transform Kuakata into a sustainable and world-class tourism destination. All of them express hope that the government will take swift and effective measures and give due priority and vision to turning Kuakata’s immense potential into reality.
Finally, the recent discussions in the National Parliament regarding the development of Kuakata, along with the active role of senior local Member of Parliament Mosharraf Hossain, and the encouraging and promising statements made by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, have rekindled hope among the people of the southern region. His firm stance on development and commitment to realistic, practical planning are seen as an important guideline for transforming the region’s potential into reality.
The deep trust, affection, and expectations that millions of people in the southern region hold for him are not limited to the present generation; rather, they reflect a long-standing historical aspiration. This expectation is further rooted in the legacy and public trust associated with two significant figures in Bangladesh’s history Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and three-time Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. The ideals of development, self-reliance, and national progress that they established continue to inspire, and within that legacy, regions like Kuakata are now seeking renewed direction.
In this context, Kuakata stands today at a unique crossroads. The “Daughter of the Sea” is not merely a name for tourism; it represents the economic future of the southern region and a promising chapter in the nation’s development journey. What is now required is well-structured planning, effective implementation, and unwavering political will, so that this dream does not remain confined to words but is transformed into reality.
A humble appeal is therefore extended to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and policymakers: let this immense potential not remain limited to documents, but be advanced toward real, tangible development. Kuakata awaits the making of a new history where the waves of the sea will echo not only beauty but also prosperity. The moment demands firmness in decision-making, speed in implementation, and a responsible commitment to the future.
Author: Zubeyea Binte Kabir
Economist, Research Journalist and Columnist
Email: zubeyea.tub@gmail.com
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