Cox's Bazar beach fatalities highlight safety risks

Over the past 12 years, 85 people have died while swimming at Cox's Bazar beach in Bangladesh, while approximately 1,200 individuals have been rescued from sea currents. Recent incidents, including the death of five tourists at Himchari beach on October 21, have renewed concerns regarding maritime safety.

Experts identify several contributing factors to these accidents, including the presence of 'hidden channels' (gupta khal) and deep holes beneath the sand that become submerged during high tide. Recent heavy rainfall and mountain runoff have reportedly created 12 to 15 such dangerous areas between Kalatali and Laboni Point.

Despite the presence of red flags marking hazardous zones and warnings from lifeguards, many tourists continue to ignore safety protocols. Large crowds, sometimes reaching 90,000 people in a single afternoon, often lack life jackets or swim proficiency. In response, the local district administration has issued ten safety guidelines, including mandates to wear life jackets, avoid swimming after 5:00 PM, and strictly follow lifeguard instructions.