Reporter Name 
The government has issued new directives to regulate tourism on Saint Martin’s Island in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, to protect the island’s fragile environment and rich biodiversity.
These guidelines are based on the “Saint Martin’s Island Environmental, Neighborhood & Biodiversity Conservation and Eco-friendly Tourism Guidelines, 2023”, aiming to preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.
Key directives are as follows:
No vessel can travel to Saint Martin’s Island without prior approval from the Environment Ministry, as enforced by the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA).Tourists must purchase tickets online through Bangladesh Tourism Board-approved websites; each ticket must include a travel pass and QR code. Tickets without QR codes will be invalid.Travel schedules are strictly controlled:November: Daytime visits only; no overnight stays.December–January: Limited overnight stays allowed.February: Island closed to all tourists.Daily tourist entry is capped at 2,000 visitors.Prohibited activities include night-time lighting on beaches, loud music, barbecue parties, entering Kaya forests, collecting or selling forest fruits, and harming marine life (turtles, birds, coral, crabs, shells, etc.).
Motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and sea bikes, are banned on the island.
Single-use plastics—including small water bottles, straws, disposable cutlery, and snack packs—are discouraged; tourists are advised to carry their own water flasks.
Officials said these measures are intended to preserve Saint Martin’s natural beauty and biodiversity while establishing the island as a model for eco-friendly tourism.
