Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has said the interim government’s decision to regulate tourism on St Martin’s Island will remain in force in order to protect the island’s existence and ecological balance.
The minister said scientific field studies had shown clear environmental improvement on the island after tourism was suspended for nine months.
In a written response to questions from DW Bangla, he said the government had taken the final decision in 2024 after nearly seven years of discussions and consultations with all relevant agencies.
Under the policy, a maximum of 2,000 tourists per day are allowed to visit St Martin’s Island from November to January. Tourism remains closed from February to October each year to allow the island’s environment, ecosystem, and biodiversity to recover from the damage caused during the three-month tourist season.
“During this period, the island gets the opportunity to naturally restore its environment, ecosystem, and biodiversity,” the minister said.
He added that the controlled tourism system has already delivered positive results.
“The condition of St Martin’s environment, ecosystem, and biodiversity has improved since this system was introduced. Scientific on-site studies have also confirmed this,” he said.
The minister stressed that maintaining the current restrictions is necessary, warning that allowing tourism for more than three months a year would threaten the island’s survival.
“Therefore, to preserve St Martin’s Island — Bangladesh’s only coral-related site in the open sea, a natural heritage, and a matter of national pride — this tourism control system must continue,” he said.
However, many local residents and stakeholders have been demanding the withdrawal of government restrictions.
They argue that tourism is the primary source of income for most island residents, and the limitations on travel have severely affected the local economy, pushing many families into hardship.
FP/MI
Bangladesh should avoid over-alignment with any single bloc: Crisis Group
10% fare hike proposed for lighter vessels after fuel price increase
Countries move worldwide to restrict social media access for children
Woman killed after being run over by truck in Jhenaidah
Mirza Fakhrul denies fuel crisis, says 'situation created artificially' 
12 Feb election established voting rights of people: PM
Arrest warrant issued against MP Amir Hamza
Police uniform colours set for another change
Mobile signals weaken as blackouts, fuel shortages spread
US announces ceasefire extension with Iran
