Kuakata, Oct 19 (V7N)- Despite cloudy skies and turbulent seas caused by the full moon tide, Kuakata beach has seen an influx of tourists over the weekend. Although no rain has fallen and there is no air pressure, the adjacent ocean remains unsettled, with large waves crashing ashore. This has resulted in higher-than-normal tidal water levels, affecting small businesses along the beach. Many traders have had to pause operations as the rising waters flood areas where they typically set up shop.

Tourist police have issued repeated warnings, using loudspeakers to discourage people from swimming in the sea due to the dangerous conditions. However, many visitors have ignored these warnings, choosing to take risks and enjoy the crashing waves.

Local residents have reported that the waves have damaged beach protection structures, such as geo bags and geo tubes, over the past three days. Yet, tourists remain undeterred, with crowds growing steadily throughout the day, particularly around Kuakata’s Zero Point. Families, children, and young people have been seen playing along the shore, reveling in the spectacle of the rough waves.

Beach vendor Nur Hossain expressed concern about the situation, stating, “The sea water has risen significantly, forcing us to remove the umbrella benches during high tide. Small vendors, like those selling coconuts, ice cream, and pickles, are also struggling to continue their business.”

Meanwhile, tourists seem thrilled by the spectacle of the rough sea. Arif Hasan, one of the visitors, said, “The beauty of the sea is at its best when big waves crash on the shore. I couldn’t resist the temptation and went down to the water. It was exhilarating.” Another tourist, Mahamud, added, “I came to Kuakata for the holiday, and the waves are even bigger than I expected. It’s been a great experience.”

Hossain Amir, General Secretary of the Kuakata Tourism Management Association (Kutum), commented on the high influx of visitors during public holidays and weekends, which brings increased business to the local tourism sector.

However, local authorities remain vigilant. Superintendent of Police for the Kuakata Region’s Tourist Police, Ansar Uddin, acknowledged the rough sea conditions, explaining that the full moon tide is causing the turbulent waters. He assured that tourist police teams are patrolling dangerous points and miking to raise awareness among visitors.

In addition to the turbulent sea, locals have reported rising water levels in nearby rivers, including the Andharmanik and Ravanabad rivers, which have been flooding low-lying areas twice a day for the past three days. Residents living outside the embankments are facing hardship as tidal waters flood their homes.

END/UKH/AJ