Major non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have expressed their keen interest to take part in the development work at an opinion exchange meeting at Hilltop Circuit House here recently.

Entrepreneurs from Dhaka and Chittagong, local journalists, businessmen, administration and joint forces officials were present at the meeting. Cox's Bazar Deputy Commissioner (DC) Aminul. Islam presided.

Renowned sculptor Rasa and his three friends led by Ragib Uddin Ahmed enthralled the participants in the meeting by presenting the master plan. The attractive feature was a global standard 'Beach Park' at Laboni Point and a major sculpture at its centre which to be built at an estimated cost of Tk 3 crore. Five more small sculptures surrounding the big one will be the added attraction. The main sculpture will be 60 feet high where portraits of different species of sharks can be seen along with sea wave.

They said the dream city is now a matter of time.

A drawing of the probable sculptures along with a fountain which to be built at the entry point of the resort city was also shown to the participants.

Meanwhile, the existing shell market was demolished from the original site. It will be replaced by a modern one.

Through advertisement, attention of major organisations with social commitment have been drawn to construct the sculpture.

Meanwhile, the officials of Grameen Phone, City Bank, Grameen Bank including Aktel and other organisations have shown their keen interest to take part in construction of the main sculpture and the beautification work.

The scheme includes construction of city gate, installation of cable car service and observation tower including an open stage theatre where renowned artistes of the country are likely to perform in future. The observation tower and other establishment will be of different nature.

There will be touch of classic art in the work.

Cox's Bazar Tourism Development Committee has welcomed any other improved plan, if any, from individuals or organisations.

In the meantime, the Tourist Zone of Cox's Bazar was freed from billboard. Billboard owners have been asked to refrain from giving one sided advertisement, rather they were asked to add something environment-friendly component. Flower beds will beautify the town and its surroundings beyond 15-kilometre area.

All the initiatives will turn Cox's Bazar into a different city.