St. Martin's Tourism Closes for 9 Months from Tomorrow

Tourist travel to Saint Martin's Island, the country's only coral island, will be suspended for nine months starting tomorrow, Sunday (February 1). According to a directive from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the current travel season officially concludes today, Saturday (January 31).

Typically, the tourist season runs from October 1 to March 31. However, this year, the government shortened the timeframe, ending it two months early to facilitate environmental conservation and cleaning initiatives.

Official Directives and Implementation

Imran Hossain, Additional District Magistrate of Cox’s Bazar, confirmed that all vessels will return tourists from the island by this evening.

“From tomorrow, no tourist ships will be allowed to operate. If the government decides to extend the season in the future, we will take action accordingly,” he stated.

Economic Impact on Island Inhabitants

The decision has sent shockwaves through the local community, which depends almost entirely on the tourism sector for its annual income.

M.A. Abdur Rahman, President of the Saint Martin Hotel-Motel-Resort Owners Association, expressed deep concern:

“Most businessmen have faced losses rather than profits this season. Such a crisis has never been seen on the island before. With arrivals ending today, the suffering of the local people will intensify.”

Foyezul Islam, Chairman of Saint Martin Union Parishad, echoed these sentiments, noting that the sudden closure has left the 12,000 residents in despair. He urged the government to consider the humanitarian aspect of these restrictions.

Personal Struggles: From Rickshaws to Fishing

For many, the transition is immediate and painful. Karim, a local rickshaw puller, shared his plight:

“From tomorrow, I have to go back to fishing. I took a loan to buy this rickshaw, but in just two months, I couldn't even recover the cost. Now, my biggest worry is how to repay that debt.”

Eco-Tourism Rules & Restrictions

While tourists have been barred for the next nine months, the government continues to enforce strict conservation guidelines for those visiting during the active months:

• Night Restrictions: Use of lights on the beach, loud music, and barbecue parties are prohibited.

• Prohibited Areas: Entering the Keya forest or collecting Keya fruits is strictly banned.

• Wildlife Protection: Any harm to coral, sea turtles, birds, or seashells is a punishable offense.

• Plastic Ban: Carrying polythene and single-use plastics is forbidden; tourists are encouraged to use reusable flasks.

• Vehicle Ban: Motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and sea-bikes, are disallowed on the beach.