Published: 07:29 AM, 08 June 2026
Cox's Bazar sand dunes under threat from reckless motorcycle stunts
Cox's Bazar Beach in Bangladesh is the longest natural sea beach in the world spanning over 120 km of unbroken golden sands along the Bay of Bengal. -AA
Salim Nur, AA : Alongside the vibrant presence of tourists at Cox's Bazar, the world's longest natural sea beach, a new environmental concern has emerged: reckless motorcycle riding and stunt performances on the beachside sand dunes. Environmentalists warn that such activities could severely damage the coastal ecosystem, biodiversity, and the natural structure of the dunes.
A visit to the area near Kobita Chattar on the beach revealed several young men performing motorcycle stunts on the sand dunes. The pressure from motorcycle tires was visibly damaging different sections of the dunes, while the loud noise from the vehicles was disrupting the beach's natural environment.
According to environmental experts, sand dunes are not merely piles of sand; they are a vital component of the coastal ecosystem. They act as a natural barrier, protecting coastal areas from erosion caused by storms, tidal surges, and the impacts of climate change. However, the pressure exerted by motorcycle tires breaks down the natural structure of the sand and weakens the stability of the dunes.
Relevant stakeholders noted that grasses, vines, and other vegetation growing on the dunes help hold the sand in place. When these plants are damaged by vehicle movement, the sand becomes more vulnerable to displacement by wind and tidal action. This increases the risk of coastal erosion and threatens the long-term ecological balance of the beach.
Experts further explained that the beaches and sand dunes of Cox's Bazar provide habitats for various species of birds, crabs, and other small animals. The noise and movement of motorcycles disrupt the natural life cycles of these creatures. In many cases, their habitats may be destroyed, and their breeding activities adversely affected.
Additionally, exhaust emissions and noise pollution from motorcycles place further pressure on the beach environment. Rather than ensuring a peaceful and natural setting for visitors, such activities are becoming a threat to both the scenic beauty and ecological balance of the beach.
Concerned local residents have called for more proactive measures from the authorities to protect Cox's Bazar's beaches and sand dunes. They specifically urged increased monitoring to prevent motor vehicle access to the dunes and stricter enforcement of environmental protection laws.
When contacted by phone regarding the matter, Cox's Bazar Tourist Police Superintendent Md. Marufat Hossain said that necessary measures would be taken. However, local residents alleged that no visible action had been observed at the site until the evening.
Environmentalists emphasize that preserving Cox's Bazar's sand dunes is now more important than ever in the face of growing climate change risks. Otherwise, the natural protective system and biodiversity of the world's longest sea beach may face even greater threats in the future.
