Ukhiya, Oct 26 (V7N) – Saint Martin’s Island, Bangladesh’s only coral island, will reopen to tourists on November 1 after a closure of nearly 10 months, with daily visitor numbers capped at 3,500 until March 15, 2027.
Each visitor will be required to pay Tk 100 as an environmental conservation fee.
The decisions were announced in a letter issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on Sunday to implement resolutions adopted at an inter-ministerial meeting on tourism to the ecologically critical area.
According to the letter, the meeting was held on October 12 under the chairmanship of the environment minister. It approved tourist visits from November 1, 2026, to March 15, 2027, subject to the daily visitor limit.
Ships to Operate From Nuniachhara
Approved tourist vessels will operate from Nuniachhara Ghat in Cox’s Bazar city. Vessel operations will depend on sea conditions, tides and safety considerations. Tourists must follow the rules set by the relevant authorities.
Conservation Fee Required
The Tk 100 fee will support environmental conservation on the island. The Department of Environment will take the necessary measures under Rule 26 of the Ecologically Critical Area Management Rules, 2016, the ministry said.
Guidelines issued by the ministry on October 22, 2023, will also remain in force.
Focus on Environmental Protection
Located in the Bay of Bengal off southern Bangladesh, Saint Martin’s Island is known for its coral formations and marine biodiversity. Authorities have sought to limit tourist numbers and regulate tourism activities amid concerns over waste management, excessive visitor pressure and environmental damage.
The new restrictions aim to balance tourism with the protection of the island’s fragile ecosystem. Visitors have been urged to comply with official guidelines during the upcoming season.
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