Traditional scenic spots losing out to modern parks

Stirring archaeological sites and the wonders of nature across the eight districts in the Rangpur division attracted holidaymakers in droves in the past, but a lack of contemporary infrastructure at those spots has made those days a distant memory.

With decrepit facilities in such destinations, the hospitality industry flourished under the private sector in the eight districts under Rangpur division.

Nowadays, a majority of tourists are found lazing away at amusement parks, most offering modern residential facilities built in a planned way.

Rides for children, as well as video games and even planetarium-like experiences, offer plenty of entertainment for visitors, especially given the alternative.

For instance, things are almost the opposite in Ramsagar, one of the biggest tourist destinations just 15 minutes from Dinajpur town.

There is only one guesthouse on its premises and that too only has around 5 rooms. But even these are not accessible to the public as they are usually booked by VIPs.

Besides, the existing structures, including sheds built to protect visitors from sunlight inside the Ramsagar area, have become dilapidated.

Another major factor that keeps tourists at bay is the lack of safety and security.

Prodip Chandra, a local of the Ramsagar area, said, "People thronged to the lake during the winter, taking buses from various districts to enjoy picnics. Sometimes, the number of buses in a single day exceeded 300."

"It was also helpful for local business, but those days are now in the past."

Locals said that not a single attraction had been built for children over the past two decades, adding that although the waterbody and surrounding highlands still make for an attractive spot, a lack of other facilities discourages visitors.

The Kantajew Temple in Kaharol upazila of Dinajpur is in a similarly rough state.

Although the 15,000-plus terracotta works installed on the walls of the 18th-century temple remain a sight to behold, the condition of the building is far from perfect.

Only eight years ago, the iconic landmark underwent renovation and site development works. Yet, due to a lack of maintenance, many of the old problems have resurfaced.

The scenario is no different at the Singra Forest in the Birganj upazila.

The Sal forest, an asset of the Dinajpur Forest Department, was among the most attractive destinations for visitors in winter but now fails to draw tourists.

"In the 90s, it was the most desirable picnic spot in the northern part of the country," said Abdus Sattar, a resident of the Alamnagar area in Rangpur.

Most of the establishments are under the supervision of either the Forest Department or the Bangladesh Archaeological Department. Besides, a few are under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner's offices and the Water Development Board in their respective districts.

These state-owned sites can also be a huge source of revenue, but given the current state of affairs, that seems like little more than a pipe dream.