DHAKA, June 14, (V7N) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman undertook a unique visit to Cox's Bazar when he drove himself nearly 197 kilometres through the thoroughfares of the beach town and its outskirts to attend a series of official programmes during his daylong visit. According to a PMO spokesman, he drove himself to various locations as he joined his scheduled engagements in the district.
After reaching Cox's Bazar Airport from Dhaka in the morning, Tarique Rahman began his tour directly from the airport amid heavy downpours and drove to Pmkhali Union to inaugurate the Patli Canal re-excavation works. After launching the canal work, the premier again took the steering wheel and reached Dulahazara Safari Park, driving to all locations throughout the day.
Thousands of local residents and BNP activists gathered along both sides of the roads to catch a glimpse of him. Many waved their hands to greet him, and the premier responded with smiles. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, elected from a Cox's Bazar constituency, sat beside Tarique Rahman while the premier's wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and the Home Minister's spouse sat in the rear seats.
The premier's visit to the district and the scene of him being in the driving seat in the scenic landscape generated great interest among the common people. The visit became a unique example of both official engagement and public interaction.
After spending 17 years in exile in London, Tarique Rahman returned home on December 25, 2024, and since assuming office as Prime Minister, he has driven his car on several occasions. However, this was the first time he personally drove such a long distance during an official tour.
END/AJ/RH/
