COX'S BAZAR, JUNE 12: The beach town is preparing for a high-profile visit today as Prime Minister Tarique Rahman arrives for a day-long programme featuring the inauguration of development projects, public engagements and a major rally.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to land in Cox's Bazar at 10:00 am. His first engagement will be the inauguration of the re-excavation work of the historic Patli Canal in Sadar Upazila, followed by a roadside address.
The Patli Canal, stretching around eight kilometres, holds historical significance in the district's development narrative. Local accounts recall its initial excavation in 1979, an event that drew large public participation and later became a landmark moment in the area's history. Authorities say its re-excavation is expected to improve irrigation, boost agricultural output and help reduce waterlogging.
Following the canal programme, the Prime Minister will visit Dulahazara Safari Park in Chakaria, where he will inaugurate a nationwide tree plantation initiative by planting saplings.
He will later travel to Pekua Upazila to visit the grave of slain journalist Shaheen Wasim and meet his family members. During the visit, he will also lay foundation stones for several development projects in Matamuhuri Upazila and Pekua Municipality.
In the afternoon, he is scheduled to attend a public meeting organised by the Upazila BNP at Chakaria Municipal Bus Terminal Ground at 4:00 pm. This will be followed by the inauguration of the Cox's Bazar Marine Drive at 5:00 pm, after which he will visit the Marine Drive and the sea beach.
