Govt prioritising tourism for economic growth: BPC Chairman

PATUAKHALI, Oct 5:  The government has started working to develop the tourism sector, considering its importance to the national economy, said Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) Chairman Md Shamimuzzaman.

“The government included tourism as an important sector in its election manifesto. After assuming office, it has already started taking various initiatives to develop the sector and increase its contribution to the country’s GDP,” he said.

He was speaking at an exchange of views on the tourism prospects of Patuakhali and Tourism Carnival 2026 at the deputy commissioner’s conference room on Monday.

The meeting, organised by the district administration, was chaired by Patuakhali Deputy Commissioner Chowdhury Ashraful Karim. BPC Chairman Md Shamimuzzaman attended as the chief guest, while Corporation Director Md Gani-ul-Azam was the special guest.
Shamimuzzaman said authorities plan to develop Patuakhali as a broader tourism destination beyond Kuakata, expanding tourism activities to other parts of the district.

Participants also discussed introducing homestays and tourism based on local lifestyles in riverine areas, including Galachipa. Speakers stressed that sustainable tourism would not be possible without the meaningful involvement of local residents.

Officials outlined a plan to develop tourism infrastructure near Patuakhali town, including a proposed tourism complex with a mini-park and accommodation facilities on several acres of land around Patuakhali Science and Technology University, the cantonment and an EPZ.

The meeting also discussed providing loans on easier terms and other incentives to encourage local investment in tourism. Speakers called for greater participation by local entrepreneurs in tourism-related economic activities.
Participants urged stakeholders to work together beyond political differences to support the district’s overall development.
Among those who spoke were Additional Superintendent of Police Md Sajidul Islam Sajal, District Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Advocate Nazmul Ahsan, Patuakhali Press Club President Md Zakir Hossain and Patuakhali Chamber of Commerce President Md Kamal Hossain. Local elected representatives, law enforcement officials, government officers, political leaders, journalists and other stakeholders also attended.