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https://doi.org/10.56556/gssr.v3i4.1103 

                                                                  

 

 

Global Scientific Research  123 

 

RESEARCH ARTICLE  

A Comparative Study on Potentials of Sustainable Tourism at Banshbaria 

and Guliakhali Sea Beaches, Chittagong 

Mehera Sultana1, Mohammed Jashimuddin1, Rafia Rahman1, Ainun Nahar1 

1Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chattogram-4331, Bangladesh 
 

Corresponding Author: Rafia Rahman. Email: rafiarahman.cu38@gmail.com 

Received: 02 December, 2024, Accepted: 25 December, 2024, Published: 30 December, 2024 

 

Abstract 

Tourism is an essential revenue stream for numerous nations and encompasses both public and private sector 

initiatives that enable travel for diverse objectives, including leisure, spirituality, and relaxation. This study 

assesses the tourism potential of Banshbaria and Guliakhali sea beaches in the Chittagong area, highlighting 

sustainable techniques to conserve natural and cultural resources while attracting numerous vacationers and 

adventure enthusiasts. We selected a total of 200 respondents from the sample sites, 100 individuals from each 

location, representing a diverse array of age groups, genders, vocations, and educational backgrounds. The 

research indicates a gender imbalance in visitor engagement, with 66% of participants being male in Banshbaria 

and 58% in Guliakhali. The predominant age range of tourists is 16–30, with students constituting the most 

prevalent segment. They generally arrive with friends and family. Tourist satisfaction ratings vary, with 67% 

favoring Guliakhali for its lush landscapes and coastline views, while 33% select Banshbaria for its mesmerizing 

sunsets and enhanced road conditions. The study delineates obstacles in Banshbaria and Guliakhali and 

emphasizes the imperative for sustainable tourist development. The result of the study will guide the responsible 

authority to develop sustainable tourism in the study areas and other similar sites.  

Keywords: Tourism; Banshbaria; Guliakhali; Sustainable Tourism  

Introduction

 

Tourism is a leisure activity that involves allocating time and resources for recreational purposes, primarily 

through travel to different areas. It includes the route to the destination as well as the length of stay, and provides 

travelers with information, transportation, accommodations, and other services (Rahman et al., 2010). According 

to Pearce et al. (1998), Tourism includes governmental and private sector endeavors that address the demands 

and impacts of travel, such as leisure, business, and several other pursuits. It may be internal or worldwide and 

serves as a significant source of revenue for numerous governments. Definitions differ, although Guyer Feuler 

initially defined tourism in 1905. The World Tourism Organization defined “tourism” as follows in order to avoid 

definitional disputes: “Tourism includes the activities of persons traveling and staying in places outside their 

usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business, and other purposes” (Couto et 

al., 2021). Tourism is distinct from travel and requires displacement for its existence. Three criteria are employed 

concurrently to define travel as tourism (Radhi, 2022), such as, (i) it involves a displacement outside the usual 

environment; (ii) the travel must occur for any purpose; and (iii) only a maximal duration is mentioned, not a 



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minimal. Usually, tourism displacement can be with or without an overnight stay (Roy & Roy, 2015). According 

to Sugiama (2014), a place can become a tourist destination if it meets four tourism components, which are 

attractions, accessibility, amenities, and ancillary services. Rizaldi et al. (2024), on the other hand, say that there 

are six components of tourism: attraction, amenities, accommodation, activity, accessibility, and ancillary 

services. According to Sunaryo (2013), tourist destinations are distinct regions or geographical areas within one 

or more administrative jurisdictions, characterized by interlinked elements: tourist attractions, tourist services, 

accessibility, community, and tourists that collectively enhance the execution of tourism activities. Sustainable 

tourism, an alternative paradigm for tourism development, prioritizes the conservation of natural marine 

resources alongside fostering economic advancement (Adocon et al., 2024). It is a vital concept that aims to 

balance the exploitation of natural resources while limiting social and environmental impacts (Battaglia, 2017). 

It involves satisfying economic, social, and aesthetic needs while preserving natural, social, cultural, and 

historical heritage (Petrović & Marković, 2013). Sustainable tourism development requires understanding 

stakeholders’ perceptions, including local leaders and policy-makers, who play a crucial role in facilitating 

mutual benefits and mitigating negative impacts on the economy, society, and environment (Kattiyapornpong et 

al., 2018). The tourism industry’s growth, especially in South Asian countries, presents opportunities for 

sustainable tourism development, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to enhance destination 

competitiveness and achieve long-term growth while considering environmental protection, economic 

development, and social equity (Mathew, 2009).  

The efficacy of sustainable tourism initiatives is contingent upon tourist behavior (Confente et al., 2024). Recent 

research indicates that while tourists express a significant interest in integrating sustainability into their travel 

experiences (Confente & Scarpi, 2021; Dolnicar et al., 2017), their actual behaviors often diverge from this 

intention (Agag et al., 2020). The study Hiariey et al. (2024) delineates three categories of tourism potential: 

natural, cultural, and human. Natural potential pertains to the distinctive flora and fauna of a place, whereas 

cultural potential encompasses human contributions such as customs and the arts. Physical potential 

encompasses geographical circumstances and tourism facilities. Non-physical potential pertains to cultural 

potential. The economic revenue generated from tourism is affected by attractions, accessibility, public 

infrastructure, and amenities. The efficient handling of these aspects enhances tourists' duration of stay and 

revenue (Achmad et al., 2023; Rizaldi et al., 2024). The significant economic benefits that tourist development 

brings are probably the main reason why so many nations are pursuing it. The contribution of tourism to the 

world economy is substantial (Ennew, 2003). Ecotourism, a sustainable tourism management approach, fosters 

sustainable growth via community engagement and the preservation of natural resources. In Kurdistan, Iraq, 

heightened community engagement amplifies the beneficial impacts of ecotourism (Ahmad & Balisany, 2023). 

Green tourism emphasizes eco-friendly methods such as waste reduction and water conservation, guaranteeing 

fair economic advantages and environmental responsibility (Daneshwar & Revaty, 2024). In Punjab, India, eco-

tourism initiatives safeguard biodiversity, enhance local welfare, and foster sustainable tourism via responsible 

construction, strategic water management, and rewilding endeavors (Chaudhary, 2024). Environmental 

protection is crucial in tourism due to the interdependence between tourism development and the preservation 

of natural resources, forming a sustainable ecosystem (Platon et al., 2023; Todorov et al., 2023; Xiao, 2022). The 

rapid growth of tourism (Lee, 2022) has led to detrimental effects on the ecological environment of tourist 

destinations, necessitating the implementation of strategies to protect these areas for sustainable development 

(Cheng & Chen, 2022). Environmental security measures are essential to prevent losses and maintain the natural 

beauty of tourist locations because of the influence tourism has on the environment through development, 

transportation, and operations (Arya et al., 2022). Overall, sustainable tourism is a multi-dimensional approach 



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that seeks to optimize resource usage, maintain ecological processes, and ensure long-term sustainability in 

tourism development (Butowski, 2012). 

The Banshbaria and Guliakhali sea beaches in Chittagong are drawing tourists and adventure enthusiasts because 

of their natural beauty and distinct cultures. Their tourism potential may enhance earnings, boosting the local 

and regional economy. Tourism development can create employment opportunities and improve the livelihoods 

of local residents in these areas. Identifying sustainable tourism practices is essential to preserve the natural and 

cultural assets of these coastal areas. However, there is no such study so far to understand and compare the 

potentials of tourism in these areas in order to conserve the natural settings, recommend better facilities for the 

tourists to appreciate and ample opportunities for the locals to earn their livelihoods. So, this study is to assess 

the tourism potential of Banshbaria and Guliakhali sea beaches with the purpose of fostering sustainable tourism 

development. It seeks to conserve natural habitats, propose appealing amenities, and offer chances for residents 

to generate income. The objectives encompass reviewing the current status, challenges, and potentials of tourism, 

assessing its environmental and community impacts, and formulating suggestions for sustainable tourist 

development. 

 

Methodology 

 

Study area 

 

The study area includes Banshbaria and Guliakhali sea beaches in Sitakunda Upazila (Figure 1). Sitakunda 

Upazila occupies an area of 483.97 square kilometers located between 22°22' and 22°42' north latitudes and 

between 91°34' and 91°48' east longitudes. Of this total area, 61.61 square kilometers (12.73%) are covered by 

forests. It is bordered by Mirsharai to the north, Pahartali to the south, Fatikchhari, Hathazari and Panchlaish to 

the east, and the Sandwip Channel in the Bay of Bengal to the west. The Sitakunda range is a 32-kilometre-long 

ridge in the center of the Upazila, which reaches an altitude of 352 meters above sea level at Chandranath or 

Sitakunda peak, the highest peak in Chittagong District. 

 

Banshbaria sea beach 

 

This beach is mostly muddy and located fifteen minutes from Banshbaria bazar in Sitakunda Upazila, Chittagong 

(Figure 1). A Jhauban (a forest full of planted Casuarina equisetifolia trees) and a newly emerged sandy field 

are among the main attractions of the beach (Nobi & Majumder, 2019). Banshbaria Sea Beach, nestled along the 

coastline, stands as a serene and picturesque destination that captivates the hearts of its visitors. Located in 

proximity to the bustling city of Chittagong, Banshbaria offers a tranquil retreat from urban life, drawing tourists 

seeking solace in the lap of nature. One of the distinctive features of Banshbaria Sea Beach is its mesmerizing 

sunset views. The beach becomes a canvas painted with hues of orange and pink as the sun dips below the 

horizon, creating a spectacle that leaves a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness it. The 

tranquility of Banshbaria, coupled with the soothing sound of waves gently lapping the shore, provides a perfect 

setting for relaxation and contemplation. Banshbaria's charm lies in its beauty and the relatively less crowded 

atmosphere compared to some other popular beaches. For those who prefer a more secluded and peaceful 

environment, Banshbaria offers a haven where one can enjoy the beauty of nature undisturbed. 



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Figure 1: Map of the study area 

 

 

Guliakhali sea beach 

 

This beach is located in Sitakunda Upazila, Chittagong, 5 km west of Sitakunda bazar (Figure 1). The beach's 

lush, grassy environment is one of its many wonderful features. This sets the beach apart from other conventional 

sand beaches. This beach has a vast potential for development (Nobi & Majumder, 2019). It is located in 

22°36'40.09" north latitudes and in 91°37'32.05"east longitudes. Its aesthetic and structural features set it apart 

from other beaches. The water is seen on one side of the horizon, while the Keora (Sonneratia apetala) forest is 

seen on the other side. This forest went deeper into the sea. Its surrounds resemble mangrove and swamp forests. 

The wide grass green carpet across the beach has grown bigger than other beaches. In the middle of the green, 

the narrow groove was pierced. During the tide, the rivers are full of water.  The seashore region is home to only 

one kind of tree, Keora, and several bird species, as well as Lal Kankra or red crab, among the fauna. Rarely, 

deer are occasionally spotted in the dense Keora forest. 

 

Research design 

 

A comprehensive study was undertaken to evaluate the geography, tourist conditions, and available amenities of 

Banshbaria and Guliakhali sea beaches, emphasizing their natural and cultural characteristics. The research 

performed a field survey in October 2023, interviewing residents and tourists in the study area. The survey was 

conducted between 9.30 am and 1.30 pm and 2.30 pm and 5.00 pm. A semi-structured questionnaire survey was 



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executed randomly, involving 200 respondents from each location, encompassing diverse age groups, gender, 

vocations, and educational backgrounds from the sample areas.  

 

Data collection 

 

Surveys and in-person interviews were executed to collect data on tourism-related activities, challenges, 

possibilities, tourist facilities, and the effects of tourism in designated areas, employing a semi-structured 

questionnaire.  

 

Data Analysis 

 

Data analysis entails the collection and presentation of gathered information via questionnaires, tables, and 

graphs, employing statistical tools for quantitative analysis and qualitative analysis, as well as generating visual 

representations.  

Results and Discussion 

Tourist attribute  

 

Visitors’ analysis shows that most of the tourists visiting the study locations are from the youth group (16-30), 

which constitutes 72% at Guliakhali and 70% at Banshbaria. The reason may be the young are more adventurous 

and nature-freak. During the study, the number of male tourists was found 66% at Banshbaria and 58% at 

Guliakhali (Table 1).  

 

Table 1. Distribution of tourists by their personal attributes in the study area  

Variable Category 

Responses (%) 

Banshbaria (n=100) Guliakhali 

(n=100) 

Total 

(n=200) 

Age Group  

 

16 – 30 years 70 72 71 

31 – 45 years 26 24 25 

46 – 60 years 4 4 4 

Gender  Male 58 66 62 

Female 42 34 38 

Marital Status  Married 32 43 37.5 

Unmarried 68 57 62.5 

Level of Education  Illiterate 6 2 4 

Primary 6 2 4 

SSC 6 8 7 

HSC 10 4 7 

Graduate 58 64 61 

Postgraduate 14 20 17 

Occupation  Student 66 68 67 

Service holder 14 20 17 

Businessman 10 5 7.5 

Housewife 6 5 5.5 

Others 4 2 3 

 



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This suggests that a lack of security and sanitation facilities is the reason behind the lower than anticipated and 

optimistic involvement of female visitors visiting both the study sites. Based on the educational background of 

the visitors, it was found that graduates (64% at Guliakhali and 58% at Banshbaria) were the most likely to 

travel, followed by postgraduates (20% at Guliakhali and 14% at Banshbaria), secondary and higher secondary 

school students (small percentage), and primary and illiterate people (very negligible percentage). The study also 

revealed that students formed the major occupation group (68% at Guliakhali and 66% at Banshbaria) followed 

by service holders (20% at Guliakhali and 14% at Banshbaria), businessmen (5% at Guliakhali and 14% at 

Banshbaria) and housewife (5% at Guliakhali and 6% at Banshbaria). Students were higher in numbers as they 

get more time to visit than others and always move in a group (Table 1). 

 

Seasons and Purpose of visiting these places  

 

There is a distinct seasonal preference among tourists for Guliakhali and Banshbaria (Figure 2a). More precisely, 

66% of tourists in Guliakhali and 50% of tourists in Banshbaria prefer traveling during the winter season (Figure 

2a). The main reason for this preference is, essentially, the ideal climatic conditions and the ease of access during 

winter seasons. On the other hand, 34% of tourists in Banshbaria and 26% of tourists in Guliakhali choose to 

visit during the rainy season, while the remaining tourists prefer to travel during the summer (Figure 2a). As 

seen by the majority of visitors, Figure 2b shows that taking nature walks and appreciating the stunning scenery 

are the main reasons people visit these locations. The remaining visitors come here for relaxed get-togethers. 

(a) 

 

 

 

 

 

(b) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 2: Distribution of visitors by (a) Seasons in which tourists prefer to visit and (b) Purpose of visiting 

the destinations 

Tourist Origin and Cost Comparison 

 

The survey indicates that majority of the tourists (63%) that visit the sea beaches in Guliakhali and Banshbaria 

originate from Chittagong. In addition, residents from Dhaka (11%), Cumilla (10%), Feni (9%), and Noakhali 

(8%) are regular visitors to these beaches (Table 2). However, due to the considerable distance and lack of 

knowledge about the place, visitors from other parts of the country hardly ever make the trip. The fact that 

Chittagong is located near these beaches adds to its appeal as a vacation spot. In addition, the total travel expenses 

are greater for Guliakhali (BDT 394) in comparison to Banshbaria (BDT 567), mostly due to the fact that visitors 

to Guliakhali frequently engage in shopping at Sitakunda Bazaar, an opportunity that is not accessible to tourists 

50

66

34
26

16
8

0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70

Banshbaria Guliakhali

N
u

m
b

er
 o

f 
to

u
ri

st
 (

%
)

Tourist spot(s)

Winter Rainy Summer

0 2

42 38
32

56

14
4

0

20

40

60

Banshbaria Guliakhali

N
u

m
b

er
 o

f 
to

u
ri

st
 (

%
)

Tourist Spot

Picniking Scenic beauty

Natural walk Time pass



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in Banshbaria (Table 2). Again, the travel expenses are dependent on the distance visitors travel to visit the 

destination. As a result, tourists who come from faraway places, like Dhaka, have to spend more money (BDT 

1379), while those who come from nearby areas, like Chittagong, have to pay less (BDT 481) (Table 2). 

 

Table 2. Comparison between origin and cost in both spots 

Tourist 

Origin 

Banshbaria Guliakhali Average 

% of visitor 

(n=100) 

Cost 

(BDT) 

% of visitor 

(n=100) 

Cost 

(BDT) 

% of visitor 

(n=200) 

Cost 

(BDT) 

Chittagong 68 394 58 567 63 481 

Cumilla 10 860 10 1250 10 1055 

Dhaka 9 1133 12 1625 11 1379 

Feni 7 520 10 660 9 590 

Noakhali 6 850 10 1100 8 975 

Total/average 100 751.4 100 1040.4 100 896 

Note: BDT = Bangladesh Taka 

Tourists' Opinions about nature deterioration by tourism introduction 

 

According to this study, a majority of tourists in Banshbaria (74%) and Guliakhali (64%) believe that the 

environment is declining due to tourist’s visitation (Table 3). The results suggest that approximately half of the 

tourists in Banshbaria (49%) and Guliakhali (45%) tend to dispose of their waste in the nearby places followed 

by 24% of tourists in Banshbaria and 38% in Guliakhali carry their dry waste in bags. In addition, a total of 27% 

of tourists from Banshbaria and 17% from Guliakhali do not produce any garbage (Table 3). 

 

Table 3. Distribution of tourists by ways of disposal of wastes 

Tourists’ opinion about nature 

deterioration 

Banshbaria (%) 

(n=100) 

Guliakhali (%) 

(n=100) 

Total (%) 

(n=200) 

Yes 74 64 69 

No 26 36 31 

Ways of disposal of waste 

Throws in the surroundings 49 45 47 

Carrying in bag 24 38 31 

Generate no waste 27 17 22 

 

Level of satisfaction 

 

The study indicates that a majority of tourists (52%) at both the sites are satisfied followed by moderately 

satisfied (27%) and highly satisfied (17%). However higher percentage of visitors from Guliakhali (78%) were 

found satisfied or highly satisfied compared to Banshbaria (60%) (Table 4). 

 

 



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Table 4. Distribution of tourists by their level of satisfaction 

Level of Satisfaction Banshbaria (%) 

(n=100) 

Guliakhali (%) 

(n=100) 

Total (%) 

(n=200) 

Highly Satisfied 15 19 17 

Satisfied 45 59 52 

Moderately Satisfied 33 21 27 

Poorly Satisfied 7 1 4 

 

Problems faced by tourists in both spots 

 

Almost all tourists identified some problems which should be taken into consideration for immediate action for 

development of tourism in these places. The major problems identified by tourists at Banshbaria are lack of 

quality food (29%) followed by lack of sanitation facilities (22%), lack of security (13%), lack of essential goods 

(12%) etc. (Table 5). The major problems identified by tourists at Guliakhali are lack of quality food (30%) 

followed by lack of sanitation facilities (22%), Communication problem (12%), lack of security (10%) etc. In 

addition, visitors from Guliakhali encounter an additional challenge: the narrow roads that make local CNG the 

only means of transportation from Sitakunda bazaar to Guliakhali sea beach severely impede their ability to visit 

the area. This can be remedied by widening the roads. 

 

Table 5. Distribution of tourists by the problems faced in both the study areas 

Problems faced by tourists 

Responses (%) 

Banshbaria 

(n=100) 

Guliakhali 

(n=100) 
Total (n=200) 

Lack of quality food 28.7 30.0 29.35 

Lack of sanitation facilities 21.8 22.0 21.90 

Lack of security 12.7 10.0 11.35 

Lack of essential goods 12.0 4.6 8.30 

Communication problem 0.0 12.0 6.00 

Lack of parking space 6.0 6.0 6.00 

Destruction of trees 5.8 3.8 4.80 

Over populated 0.0 4.0 2.00 

Noise pollution 4.3 0.0 2.15 

Waste pollution 3.5 2.1 2.80 

Lack of benches 3.2 3.0 3.10 

Others 2.0 2.5 2.25 

Total 100 100 100 

 

Development needs according to tourist  

 

Local tourists at Guliakhali and Banshbaria sea beaches place a high value on improving amenities, despite the 

fact that there are noticeable variations in their preferences (Table 6). Within Guliakhali, 30% of tourists 

prioritize improving restaurants to ensure exceptional cuisine, while 27% stress the need for improved restrooms 

and sanitary facilities, particularly focusing on meeting the needs of women. In addition, 14% of tourists 



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specifically desire improved communication services in order to navigate challenging road conditions, 12% 

emphasize security measures, 11% desire benches to fully enjoy the natural surroundings, and 6% propose 

constructing a watch tower or lookout for a panoramic view of the beach. Conversely, individuals from 

Banshbaria place a high importance on security, with 26% advocating for it to ensure unrestricted movement, 

particularly for women. In addition, 25% of respondents propose the creation of eateries, 21% prioritize 

improving restroom and sanitation facilities, and 16% recommend strategic planting to increase the visual 

attractiveness of the beach. Furthermore, 12% of people express a desire for benches to enhance their beach-

view experience (Table 6). This comparison emphasizes the diverse yet intersecting preferences of tourists at 

both destinations, emphasizing the necessity for customized enhancements to optimize their overall satisfaction. 

 

Table 6. Distribution of tourists by their responses on the development needs in the study areas 

Development needs according to 

tourist 

Response (%) 

Guliakhali (n=100) 
Banshbaria 

(n=100) 
Total (n=200) 

Restaurant 30 25 27.5 

Washroom 27 21 24 

Communication 14 0 7 

Security 12 26 19 

Benches 11 12 11.5 

Watch tower 6 0 3 

Tree plantation 0 16 8 

Total 100 100 100 

 

Problem identified by Local people  

 

Residents in both Guliakhali and Banshbaria have noted considerable problems arising from tourist activity, with 

waste pollution being the primary worry in both places (Table 7). In Guliakhali, 58% of the surveyed individuals 

identify inadequate waste management as a problem, whereas 59% of the population in Banshbaria shares this 

concern. Unethical actions account for 15% in Guliakhali and a higher 19% in Banshbaria, making them the 

second greatest worry.  

 

Table 7. Distribution of local people by their responses on the problems identified in the study areas 

 

Problem identified by local people 

Responses (%) 

Guliakhali 

(n=100) 

Banshbaria 

(n=100) 

Total 

(n=200) 

Waste Pollution 58 59 58.5 

Unethical Activities 15 19 17 

Damaging trees by Tourists 14 0 7 

Cultural changes 0 6 3 

Noise Pollution 7 12 9.5 

Crowdedness 6 4 5 

Total 100 100 100 



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In Guliakhali, tourists cause tree damage at a rate of 6% and noise pollution at a level of 7%. In comparison, 

Banshbaria experiences a higher level of noise pollution (12%) due to the use of high-volume microphones. In 

both Guliakhali and Banshbaria, there are occasional minor problems. For instance, 6% of people in Guliakhali 

mentioned overcrowding during vacations, while 6% in Banshbaria occasionally noted cultural changes (Table 

7). 

 

Development needs according to local people  

 

People in both areas are shown to support facility improvements, but at different priorities according to the 

survey as depicted in Table 8. For instance, there is a population of approximately 30% residents living in 

Guliakhali who would be ready pay outright store rents with a view on enduring cyclones and storms. Also, 26% 

desire electricity to be more reliable, and while 20% believe that a bridge should be built for people wanting to 

go to the beaches during monsoon time, 13% insist that dustbins must be put up to collect litter from visitors 

whereas others demand clean public toilets. Likewise, 20% of Banshbaria’s inhabitants feel power supply should 

improve while another 22% are concerned about having tree species which suit their environment. Meanwhile, 

security measures and staying trash cans for proper waste management are claimed by nearly one fifth (19%) of 

all respondents. Furthermore, 15% emphasize the need for structured stores, while 5% emphasize the importance 

of improved law enforcement (Table 8). 

 

Table 8. Distribution of local people by their responses on development needs in the study areas 

Development needs according to local 

people 

Responses (%) 

Guliakhali (n=100) Banshbaria  

(n=100) 

Structured Shop 30 15 

Tree Plantation 0 22 

Electricity 26 20 

Bridge 20 0 

Increase Security 0 19 

Dustbin 13 19 

Washrooms 11 0 

Enforcement of law 0 5 

Total 100 100 

 

Local employment in the study areas 

 

The study revealed that 40% people of Banshbaria and 45% people of Guliakhali were involved in permanent 

business or occupation (Figure 3). On the other hand, a total of 60% people of Banshbaria and 55% of Guliakhali 

were involved in floating or temporary business which indicate the potentiality of tourism area (Figure 3). Here 

floating business are more than permanent business because no infrastructural development has taken place in 

these areas (Figure 3). And the socio-economic conditions of the people are not in that position to afford 

permanent shops so they depend on floating business. 



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Figure 3. Distribution of local people on the type of employment in the study areas 

Challenges of the study areas 

Banshbaria 

 

The study identified several issues that are preventing tourists from being fully satisfied with their visit to the 

Banshbaria beach. One of the main factors that has hindered female tourists' participation is security worries. 

Other major obstacles are lack of shops, restaurants, hotels and poor sanitation facilities. The inaccessibility of 

parking facilities and basic supplies made it challenging for the visitors. There is greater pollution when there 

aren't enough garbage bins because people throw rubbish everywhere. A visitor's comfort might also be 

negatively impacted by inappropriate seating arrangements and noise pollution. Aside from the misbehavior of 

tourists, the cutting of trees and the lack of drinkable water are other factors that exacerbate these problems. 

These factors work together to make the overall visitor experience challenging, which is why extensive 

environmental and infrastructure improvements are required at Banshbaria Beach. 

 

Guliakhali 

 

Tourists who have visited Guliakhali Beach have reported certain serious issues that have hampered their overall 

enjoyment and experience. Security concerns, which are also evident in Banshbaria, are a major cause for the 

limited number of female travelers. The lack of good food and poor sanitary facilities are the key-challenges. 

The communication problems that exist between Sitakunda Bazar and Guliakhali beach and the unavailability 

of the basic goods also make the tourists' experience less enjoyable. Scarcity of parking spaces and sometimes 

overcrowding are other problems. The environment is at risk due to the wrong way of waste disposal, cutting 

down of trees, sand extraction from the seabed, and beach erosion due to continuous anchoring. Besides that, the 

shortage of seating facilities and the immoral activities by some tourists, as well as the lack of drinking water, 

are the main reasons why the visitors are so unhappy. 

Recommendation for the development of the study areas 

Banshbaria 

 

Addressing the various problems opined by the tourists at Banshbaria beach necessitates a holistic strategy. 

Improving safety with concrete tactics can allay the fears of those who see the beach as dangerous, particularly 

40 45

60 55

0

20

40

60

80

Banshbaria Guliakhali

In
d

iv
id

u
a
ls

 (
%

)

Tourist spot(s)

Permanent business Floating or temporary business



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women. Tourist satisfaction and economic growth are dependent on the establishment of shops and other 

amenities such as snack bars, restaurants, and motels. Parking and sanitation facilities must be adequate, with 

enough washrooms for all visitors. People are growing more aware and making a difference, as seen by proper 

waste disposal systems and dustbins; however, the use regarding such dustbins must be enforced and properly 

followed in order to prevent pollution. Solving the problem of a scarcity of essential resources, such as drinking 

water, will go a long way towards improving visitors' experiences.  

Guliakhali 

In order to resolve the issues in Guliakhali sea beach, the following broad strategies are needed. It becomes 

important to ensure security and enhance the level of tourist participation where women should be considered. 

Thus, increasing the quality of the available food by promoting local producers and sellers will enhance the level 

of tourists’ satisfaction. There should be a sufficient number of well-maintained washrooms with distinct areas 

designated for men and women. Tourism experience of Sitakunda Bazar to Guliakhali beach would be easier if 

the communication and transportation system of the two regions is well developed. The concerns with waste 

disposal require proper methods of waste disposal and management, as well as information sharing where the 

general public is educated about the conservation of the environment. For Guliakhali to be sustainably conserved, 

it is imperative that the aforementioned unethical activity, tree-cutting, sand extraction, and beach erosion be 

avoided. In order to prevent future exploitation of the current Keora Forest, it is also necessary to engage 

competent personnel. 

Conclusion 

 

The study on the potentiality of tourism development in both Banshbaria and Guliakhali has unveiled a spectrum 

of challenges that currently hinder the optimal development of these promising tourist destinations. Guliakhali 

seems to have a slight edge because of its natural attractions and higher preference among visitors. Both the 

places boast immense tourism potential, each offering a unique array of attractions that could appeal to diverse 

visitor preferences. The demographic insights, revealing a concentration of young and adventurous tourists, 

underscore the potential for adventure and nature-based activities in both locations. With a majority of tourists 

being students, there is an opportunity to develop educational and recreational offerings that align with their 

interests. The destinations, primarily attracting visitors from Chittagong, can strategize to increase accessibility 

and appeal to a broader geographical audience. Both locations face common issues such as security concerns 

impacting female tourist participation, insufficient infrastructure, inadequate sanitation facilities, shortage of 

essential goods, challenges related to waste disposal and environmental degradation need to be addressed through 

collaborative efforts between local communities and tourism stakeholders. Recognizing and building upon these 

potentials can lead to sustainable tourism development, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors while 

preserving the natural beauty of Banshbaria and Guliakhali. Addressing common issues, promoting responsible 

tourism, and involving the local community in development are critical for the long-term success of both 

destinations. The potentiality of tourism in both Banshbaria and Guliakhali is substantial, but unlocking this 

potential requires a concerted effort from local authorities, businesses, and the community. By implementing the 

recommended measures, these coastal destinations can transform into sustainable and attractive tourist spots, 

offering memorable experiences while safeguarding their natural resources for future generations. 

 

 



Global Sustainability Research 

 

Global Scientific Research  135 

 

Declaration  

 

Acknowledgment: N/A 

 

Funding: N/A 

 

Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest 

 

Ethics approval/declaration: N/A 

 

Consent to participate: N/A 

 

Consent for publication: N/A 

 

Data availability: Data available on request 

 

Authors contribution: Mehera Sultana led the conceptualization, data analysis, and writing and 

visualization; Mohammed Jashimuddin provided supervision, reviewed and revised the manuscript; 

Rafia Rahman handled statistical analysis and manuscript preparation; Ainun Nahar managed data 

collection and statistical analysis. 
 

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