Minister issues 3 urgent directives to Tourism Board

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has issued three urgent directives to the Bangladesh Tourism Board following a deadly fire at Tuptup Resort and Restaurant in Patuartek, Inani, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, that claimed 10 lives.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism disclosed the directives in a statement on Saturday (October 17).

The minister directed the Tourism Board to send a delegation to the site to assess the situation, determine the extent of the damage and provide assistance to affected tourists.

He also ordered an urgent meeting with local administration, law enforcement agencies and tourism-sector stakeholders to ensure tourists’ safety and coordinate necessary measures. The recommendations made at the meeting must be implemented promptly.

In a third directive, the minister called for special training in fire safety and emergency rescue for staff at tourist destinations, with support from the Fire Service and Civil Defence, to prevent similar incidents.

Millat expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also urged the authorities to take effective steps to locate missing people and determine the cause of the fire.