Over 10,000 residents of Saint Martin’s Island are currently facing a severe food shortage due to the suspension of vessel operations on the Teknaf-Saint Martin’s Island route. This suspension has drastically affected the island’s supply chain.

Local authorities have taken steps to mitigate the crisis by arranging special transport via river routes and allowing goods-laden vessels to deliver essential supplies to the island.

The suspension, which began in February, was enforced due to escalating violence in Myanmar near the Bangladesh border. Recent gunfire incidents along the Teknaf border have heightened panic among island residents and further disrupted the movement of goods and people.

Mujibur Rahman, chairman of Saint Martin’s Union Parishad, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the suspension has led to a critical food crisis. He mentioned that vessels have been targeted by gunfire, prompting authorities to impose a ban on all vessel movements.

Mehedi Hasan, Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer, reported that on June 5, about 25-30 bullets were fired at a trawler carrying election commission officials from Myanmar, increasing fears and reinforcing the ban on vessel movement.

Residents of Shapuree Dwip have also been affected, spending sleepless nights due to ongoing clashes in Myanmar. Loud sounds of mortar shells and gunfire have been reported, causing further distress.