Between 4:30am and 5am, these vehicles were seen ferrying large groups of tourists toward Chhera Dwip, an uninhabited and ecologically sensitive extension of Saint Martin’s Island. According to the existing government rules, tourists visiting Saint Martin’s Island are required to follow strict government guidelines to protect its fragile ecosystem. Saint Martin’s Island spans only 5 to 8 square kilometres, depending on tides, and supports a resident population estimated at 12,000 people, many dependent on tourism for livelihoods. “This Master Plan presents a vital opportunity to protect biodiversity while strengthening community livelihoods, but only through collective action,” said Sonali Dayaratne, deputy resident representative of UNDP Bangladesh. As the current tourism season continues ahead of the island’s scheduled closure, conservationists warn that policy alone will not save Saint Martin’s.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 16, 2026 08:12 UTC