The Department of Shipping has ordered the closure of the Lighthouse Sea Beach tourism spot beside the lighthouse in Kutubdia, Cox’s Bazar, citing risks to navigation. The South Dhurung Union Parishad formally inaugurated the site in December last year. A letter issued six months after authorities were notified prohibited operating any tourism spot in front of the lighthouse because the navigation system was considered risky.

The site had rides, tourist boats, lighting and shops intended to provide recreation for visitors. Tourist numbers are already low during the monsoon because of poor weather. Visitors who come to see Kutubdia’s historic lighthouse, as well as devotees visiting Kutub Sharif Darbar, had also visited the tourism spot, according to the report.

Shopkeepers Nurul Islam and Md Akil said the site had created an income opportunity and warned that sales would disappear without tourists and gatherings. Union Parishad Chairman Alauddin Al Azad said about Tk 10-12 lakh from parishad funds had been spent on road repairs, security, lighting, children’s attractions, rides and tourist boats outside the protected area. Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Mizanur Rahman said he would discuss the matter with higher authorities.