Photo: BSS

By Abdus Salam Azad Jewel

CHANDPUR, March 23, 2026 (BSS) - Nearly 2.7 million people live in the district, yet there is no major tourist destination nearby for this large population. 

As a result, the confluence of three rivers at Boro Station premises in the district, which is popularly known as Molehead, has emerged as their main recreational spot. It resembles a miniature sea beach, with sandbars rising at the meeting point of the rivers, reminding visitors of a coastal shoreline.

On the occasion of this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr, a massive influx of visitors has gathered at the confluence of the Padma, Meghna, and Dakatia rivers. People of all ages expressed joy at being able to spend time there.

Law enforcement agencies have strengthened security in the area to ensure the safety of tourists.

A visit to the site on Sunday, the second day of Eid, revealed that from noon to afternoon, the confluence was packed with people. The Molehead turned into a gathering place for visitors from different upazilas of Chandpur as well as from outside the district. Families arrived by public transport and private vehicles to enjoy their time at the riverside.

The confluence presents different natural beauty at different times of the day—morning, afternoon, dusk, and evening—each with its own charm. 

The sunset in the afternoon creates a stunning view, while moonlit nights offer an almost heavenly atmosphere. However, due to security reasons, visitors are not allowed to stay late into the night. 

Adventure lovers sometimes enjoy the beauty of the night by boating on the Dakatia River under the moonlight.

Small and large trawlers and speedboats are available on both the northern and southern sides of the confluence. These vessels can take visitors to a place known as “Mini Cox’s Bazar” on the western side of the Meghna River. 

However, visitors must return to the confluence by 5 pm. The fare is Tk 100 per person by trawler and at least Taka 300 per person by speedboat. Announcements over loudspeakers guide visitors about these trips.

Shahadat Hossain, who came from Kachua, told BSS that he visits the place occasionally even outside Eid holidays and has been there several times before. The enchanting scenery keeps drawing him back.

Solaiman, a teacher from the same upazila, said Chandpur is widely known as the “home of hilsa,” and visiting this place reflects that identity. The natural river scenery is very beautiful, making it an attractive destination for spending time with family.
Al-Amin and his three friends came from Chandra in Faridganj upazila. They have visited before and said the confluence was one of their top destinations during this Eid. They described their time from morning to afternoon as very enjoyable.

Moniruzzaman from Chandpur Sadar visited with friends and said the river waves and overall environment are very pleasing. He added that anyone can have a great time here with family, especially during Eid when large numbers of people visit.

Rafiquzzaman Rony, a lawyer at the Chandpur Bar and a writer, said there are no significant recreational facilities for the district’s large population.

 As a result, people gather at the river confluence during festivals or leisure time. He added that the administration recently removed temporary shops before Eid, making the environment cleaner and more attractive.

Cultural organizer and actor Sharif Chowdhury said the lack of quality tourist centers forces people to crowd this area. He suggested that if a government initiative like a marine drive or a major tourist facility is developed, it would increase revenue and provide better recreation opportunities.

Officer-in-Charge of Chandpur Sadar Model Police Station, Faiz Ahmed, said police are on duty across the city day and night during Eid. Special attention is being given to ensure that visitors at the river confluence face no problems.

Officer-in-Charge of Chandpur Naval Police Station, AKMS Iqbal, said naval police are maintaining round-the-clock patrols in the Chandpur river area, including the launch terminal, with special monitoring of the confluence during Eid.