PATUAKHALI, Sept 27, 2025 (BSS) - As part of the nationwide celebration of the World Tourism Day, Kuakata, one of Bangladesh's most popular tourist destinations, warmly welcomed visitors with flowers today. 

This year's theme, "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation," emphasizes responsible tourism and calls upon youth to actively contribute to the sector's growth.

To mark the occasion, tourists arriving in Kuakata-many of whom are also visiting during the Durga Puja holidays-were greeted with flowers by the Kuakata Hotel-Motel Owners' Association and local stakeholders. 

Men, women, children, and the elderly were all welcomed near the tourist police box area at the zero point of Kuakata beach, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere.

Earlier in the morning, the Patuakhali District Administration organized a colorful rally and discussion session to commemorate the day. 

The rally, which began at 9am from the Kuakata Municipal Building premises, was led by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Shahid Hossain Chowdhury. It paraded through the streets of Kuakata, drawing participation from people of all walks of life involved in the tourism industry.

The rally concluded with a brief discussion meeting chaired by Acting Executive Officer Md. Yasin Sadek. Officials from the district and upazila administrations, hotel and motel owners, tour operators, tour guides, restaurant owners, and various other tourism-related professionals were present at the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Kuakata Hotel-Motel Owners' Association President M. A. Motaleb Sharif said, "Today is World Tourism Day. We are welcoming tourists with flowers to share our joy with them and highlight Kuakata's hospitality and charm."