Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said that no structures will be allowed on the sand dunes of Cox’s Bazar sea beach, as authorities continue eviction drives against illegal establishments.

During a visit to Sugandha Point on Sunday afternoon, the minister said the removal of floating shops and other illegal structures has already begun and will be carried out in phases from Nazirartek to Teknaf along the nearly 120-kilometre coastline. He added that genuine small traders would be rehabilitated.

Earlier, at a disciplinary committee meeting on March 9, the minister instructed officials to remove illegal structures from the beach within a week. Following the directive, the administration conducted drives in Sugandha and Kolatoli, demolishing more than 500 illegal establishments.

Officials said the initiative has already changed the appearance of several parts of the beach, allowing clear views of the sand dunes and the sea. Tourism stakeholders noted that visitors during the Eid holidays are now experiencing a cleaner and more scenic environment.

According to local observers, around 60 to 70 lakh tourists visit Cox’s Bazar every year. Many had previously expressed dissatisfaction over makeshift shops and unplanned structures on the dunes, which were also linked to various criminal activities.

The issue of permit-based trading in beach management also came under discussion. Allegations suggest that many permits issued in the name of rehabilitating small traders are misused, with some being rented out at high prices. Environmental activists claim that significant revenue generated from this system lacks transparency.

District Commissioner (DC) Md A Mannan said the ongoing eviction at Sugandha Point is part of a broader plan to clear all illegal structures along the coastline.

Civil society representatives have urged the authorities to dismantle the alleged permit trade to ensure environmental protection and sustainable beach management.

Several local officials and political leaders were present during the minister’s visit.