JICA-Funded Eco-Friendly Road Construction Underway in Cox’s Bazar
A 1.8-kilometer-long and 28-meter-wide scenic coastal road is now being built along the Cox’s Bazar sea beach, with funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and implementation by the Cox’s Bazar Municipality at a cost of around BDT 63.5 crore. This important infrastructure project is to improve the tourist destination’s visual appearance, reduce traffic, promote local economic development, and act as a solid foundation for coastal protection. Along with the local administrator, Mr. Shamim Al Imran, and executive engineer, Mr. Parakram Chakma, local Member of Parliament, Mr. Lutfur Rahman Kajol, visited the current construction project last Wednesday to evaluate its implementation progress, structural design, and environmental effects.
MP Kajol emphasized during his inspection that the JICA-funded project will serve as a major defensive barrier for the town and significantly change the region’s tourism-dependent economy. He said, ‘Now is the time to build sustainable infrastructure in accordance with the sea and the environment’, adding that the previous use of geo-bags to prevent erosion proved harmful. He went on to say that by linking this route with Marine Drive in the future, Cox’s Bazar will become more well-known worldwide and provide tourists with modern transportation options while resolving urban traffic jams.
In response to environmental concerns, MP Kajol said that the 1.8-kilometer project had complete regulatory approval and, if executed methodically, will make Cox’s Bazar even more environmentally friendly. He expressed his intention to name the path as Poribesh Sarak, saying, ‘We want a road where development and the environment go hand in hand’. Drawing connections to coastal development in other countries, he also proposed that the Environment Conservation Act (ECA) be reconsidered to better accommodate commercial activity and job creation.
Residents and media, however, expressed significant support for the long-term planning while criticizing opponents and the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) for reportedly obstructing development under the guise of environmentalism. Local stakeholders strongly believe that the route will change regional communication, protect the city, and maintain the beach area’s natural beauty if it is completed on time and strictly in accordance with environmental standards.
