Jaflong Crowded with Tourists, but Civic Facilities Still Inadequate.

Naeem Ahmed, Jaintapur Gowainghat, Sylhet. Jaflong, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sylhet, is witnessing a growing influx of visitors. The scenic hills, crystal-clear Piyain River, waterfalls, stone beds and Meghalaya hills along the Bangladesh-India border continue to attract tourists from across the country. However, despite the increasing number of tourists, the necessary tourism infrastructure and civic facilities have not improved at the same pace. A recent visit to the area found inadequate parking facilities, a shortage of dustbins, scattered waste, insufficient seating arrangements and a lack of adequate standard toilets and drinking water facilities. During holidays and weekends, the heavy influx of tourists also causes traffic congestion and creates additional challenges for maintaining security and discipline. Garbage was seen piled up at several places, particularly around Zero Point and areas near the BGB camp. Waste along the riverbank and surrounding tourist spots has raised concerns about environmental pollution and the long-term sustainability of the tourism destination. Unplanned shops and various temporary structures have also emerged in different areas, affecting both the natural beauty and the overall environment of Jaflong. Questions have also been raised about the proper maintenance of some tourist facilities, including the Jaflong Stone Museum. Although various development plans and a tourism master plan have been proposed to enhance Jaflong’s tourism potential, many of the planned facilities are yet to be fully implemented. Local residents and traders say thousands of people depend directly and indirectly on tourism-related businesses in Jaflong. They believe that proper planning and improved facilities could boost tourism, create more employment opportunities and strengthen the local economy. Tourists and local stakeholders have urged the authorities to take immediate steps to improve sanitation, waste management, parking, security and other civic facilities while protecting Jaflong’s natural environment. Jaflong has no shortage of natural beauty; what it needs most is better management, proper planning and sustainable tourism development.