Desk Report:
City Mayor Dr Shahadat Hussain launched the eviction drive at Patenga Beach yesterday. At that time he had said, Patenga Beach is an invaluable asset of Chittagong. Despite repeated warnings, the Municipal Corporation will take legal action against those who are illegally occupying the beach and running businesses. Patenga is a major attraction for domestic and international tourists, he said. Therefore, it is everyone’s responsibility to keep the beach clean and beautiful. The Mayor said, Patenga Beach is an asset of Chittagong, where people come to spend some time. No one will be able to occupy the beach walkway or public path and set up business by setting up tables and umbrellas there. We have also received complaints of tourists being forced to eat or collecting bills. If business here causes harm to the coast culturally or geographically, we will definitely take action.
There are shops and stalls at the back of the beach and there are ample food options, he said; Therefore, it is not acceptable to jeopardize public interest by building hotels or permanent settlements in the beach area. The mayor said, “I have repeatedly spoken to the shopkeepers, they have also agreed that the beach will remain open for the public. After that, we carried out awareness activities and later launched a campaign through the magistrate. But still, legal proceedings will be initiated against those encroaching on the beach. This activity will be conducted in coordination with all concerned organizations including the district administration, CDA, tourist police.”
