Masterplan being developed to protect Saint Martin’s Island: Rizwana

The natural environment of Saint Martin’s Island is showing signs of recovery, and a masterplan is underway to ensure its long-term protection, said Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser on Environment, Forest, Climate Change, and Water Resources.

Speaking at a press conference on World Environment Day and the Environment Fair, Hasan said a project is being developed under the Climate Trust Fund to support this effort. “There is no reason to worry if we can save Saint Martin’s Island. Preserving the island will remove all concerns,” she said.

Hasan highlighted the progress made in tackling pollution across the country. “All shopping centers are now completely polythene bag-free, though traditional markets still face challenges due to habitual use,” she explained.

To address this, the Ministry of Jute and Textiles is taking responsibility for replacing polythene bags with affordable jute bags for consumers.

The adviser also announced that 17 products have been classified as single-use plastics, with cotton buds and straws already banned. Authorities plan to launch enforcement actions against such products soon.

Addressing law and order concerns, Hasan strongly condemned incidents of mob justice, calling for the Ministry of Home Affairs to take decisive action. “We didn’t take responsibility in an ideal environment, but police presence and activity have increased and will continue to do so,” she added.