Cox's Bazar Parasailing Deadly Risks for Tourists

Once considered a breathtaking way to experience the blue waters and green hills of Cox's Bazar, parasailing at Darianagar and Himchhari beaches is quickly becoming a source of public fear. Following a string of recent accidents, unregulated operations and faulty equipment have turned this popular adventure sport into a serious safety hazard.

The dangers were starkly exposed on June 16, when a tourist plummeted into the ocean from mid-air due to a technical failure while taking off from Daryanagar Point. Though the tourist was rescued in critical condition, the near-fatal disaster has raised serious questions about the safety standards protecting domestic and foreign visitors.

Initial investigations into the incident revealed extreme operator negligence, including the use of expired, low-quality harnesses and ropes. The public backlash intensified recently when a video of another dangerous parasailing mishap went viral on social media. Civic groups and tourists are now demanding uncompromising surveillance and strict legal action from the district administration.

Tourism experts warn that if effective controls are not enforced immediately, the sector could face a severe crisis. Incidents of ropes snapping mid-air are becoming dangerously common. Experts argue that without ensuring international safety standards and equipment fitness, it is only a matter of time before a fatal tragedy occurs.

Tourists visiting the beach are already expressing their apprehension. Nusrat Sohel, visiting from Dhaka, canceled her plans after seeing the viral footage. "This thrilling ride has become a death trap due to a lack of minimum safety protocols," she said. "If these oversights continue, Cox's Bazar will quickly lose its tourists."

Ajmeri Khanam, a tourist from Khulna, echoed this sentiment. "I have parasailed abroad where the systems are beautiful and safe. Here, it feels less like a sport and more like a risky gamble with your life. The administration must step up."

Local residents report that this unregulated commercial activity has persisted for years across sensitive zones along Marine Drive. They allege that unlicensed owners are operating without trained crews or standard safety gear, and are even building unauthorized structures on the beach. Surprisingly, operators are continuing to fly tourists during the rainy season, ignoring warnings about disastrous monsoon weather.

However, operators downplay the risks. Nur Mohammad, manager of Satellite Vision Sea Sports, stated, "Mechanical failures and rope breaks are just accidents. We thoroughly brief tourists on the rules before they fly and provide constant guidance from the ground using a hand microphone."

The local administration claims it is taking the issue seriously. Mobile courts are actively penalizing unscrupulous organizations that use risky, unlicensed equipment. Authorities have also issued strict orders mandating fitness certificates for all beach rides.

Yet, systemic issues remain. Five different parasailing companies currently operate within a narrow 2.5-kilometer stretch near Dariyanagar-Himchhari. Tourists frequently complain of extortionate fees, harassment, and shaky rides.

HM Nazrul Islam, member secretary of the Cox's Bazar Citizens' Movement, highlighted the broader impacts. "Parasailing is destroying biodiversity, including crab habitats in the Ecologically Critical Area (ECA), all while operators extort millions of taka from tourists," he said. He demanded that operators be held strictly accountable and that mandatory insurance be introduced for riders.

Islam also pointed out an aviation risk: "There is a threat of mid-air collisions with aircraft flight paths, which requires immediate coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority. How does the district administration continue to grant permissions after so many accidents? I demand a temporary ban until safety is guaranteed."

Additional District Magistrate Mamnun Ahmed Anik acknowledged the sport's economic potential but stressed that safety is non-negotiable. "Parasailing is an important part of adventure tourism in Cox's Bazar, but it can only survive if overall safety is maintained," Anik said. He confirmed that strict legal action will follow ongoing inspections of safety gear, environmental compliance, and operational licenses.