Promoting tourism
Photo: Noor Alam/driknews
Branding Bangladesh as "Beautiful Bangladesh" to attract tourists was suggested in S. Ahmad's write up published in your pages on August 10. It is, however, only an optimistic side of the matter. Once a tourist lands in Dhaka, the unwary tourist might quite possibly be stranded due to non functional transportation caused by a political strike, a common phenomenon of Bangladesh today. This is the first cruel reality the tourist may face. He or she may be extremely lucky to hire a three wheeler, to go to the hotel, unhindered and unstopped by a crowd of so called 'political activists' that rules the city during strikes. Usually, being stopped a number of times on the way; and even facing a brawl or throwing of stones on the way is the norm; with chances of injury! After such a beginning, will any tourist feel comfortable to travel further to far off places where most of the popular tourist spots are located? Most likely not. The disappointed tourist would rather seek the first available plane to go out of the country at the earliest opportunity! Such uncertain political climate is more the rule than exception. This is the unfortunate. No amount of promotional measures taken or promises made can improve the situation. Thanks to our politicians, whose only aim is to go to power! How can we then expect to transform Bangladesh into a popular tourist destination?
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