Cox’s Bazar (Teknaf), July 26 (V7N) – Severe tidal flooding caused by a developing low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal has led to a three-day suspension of boat services between Teknaf and St. Martin’s Island, resulting in acute shortages of essential goods on the island.
 
According to Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sheikh Ehsan Uddin, all vessels, including passenger boats and supply trawlers, have been barred from operating since Thursday due to perilous sea conditions. Supplies have been severely disrupted, leaving markets nearly empty and over two hundred residents stranded on St. Martin’s Island.
 
Teknaf boat owner association head Abdul Rashid confirmed that the suspended services have cut off fresh food, fuel, and other necessities, intensifying hardship among residents and visitors alike.
 
Meanwhile, sea levels along the coast have risen by an estimated 1–3 feet above normal, driven by storm surges and rough waves. The surging water has forced saltwater into low-lying houses and farmland, damaging homes and coconut trees along the shoreline.
 
At Teknaf’s Subrang area, erosion from waves breached a 2.5 km stretch of the Cox’s Bazar–Teknaf Marine Drive, especially between Baharchhara Ghat and Zero Point. Geo-bag embankments have failed, threatening the structural integrity of the road and nearby farmland.
 
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued Local Cautionary Signal No. 3 for coastal ports including Cox’s Bazar, Mongla, Chattogram, and Payra, warning of continuing rough seas and heavy rain.
 
Local Response & Safety Measures:
Acting Union Parishad Chairman Fayezul Islam and local officials have called for urgent shore reinforcement using geo-bags to protect the island from further erosion. Relief efforts are underway, and authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions to resume transport once it is safe.
 
Public Advisory:
Residents of Teknaf and St. Martin’s are advised to stay alert through the Bangladesh Meteorological Department for updates. Small vessels should remain moored and avoid travel until conditions improve. Coastal communities are urged to prepare for possible flash floods and protect embankments against wave erosion.
 
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