St Martin’s to remain closed for 9 months from Sunday

St Martin’s, one of the country’s top tourist destinations, is set to fall silent again for a prolonged period. The government has decided to suspend tourist visits to the coral island in Teknaf upazila of Cox’s Bazar for nine consecutive months from Sunday to protect the environment.

According to instructions from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, tourist activities for the current season will end on Saturday. As a result, vessels are travelling to St Martin’s with tourists for the last time today.

Usually, tourist visits to St Martin’s are allowed from October 1 to March 31 every year. However, considering environmental risks, the duration was shortened this year to January 31.

Cox’s Bazar additional district magistrate Imran Hossain said no tourist vessels would be allowed to operate from Sunday. Necessary measures would be taken if the government changes its decision later.

Under government directives, lighting on the beach at night, loud noise, barbecue parties, entry into mangrove forests, and collection and sale of mangrove fruits will remain prohibited on the island. Damaging biodiversity, including marine turtles, birds, corals, horseshoe crabs and shellfish, will also be banned.

Motorcycles and other motorised vehicles will not be allowed on the beach. Carrying polythene and single-use plastics will also be prohibited. Tourists have been advised to carry personal water flasks.