The government has moved to protect Saint Martin’s Island, issuing 12 tough new guidelines that ban lighting, loud noise and barbeque parties on the beaches at night.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change released a notification today (22 October) citing the need to safeguard the island’s ecosystem, biodiversity and natural beauty under Section 13 of the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, by imposing restrictions on travel, tourism and activities on the island.
According to the order, the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) cannot allow any vessel to operate to Saint Martin’s without prior approval from the Ministry.
Tourists must purchase tickets through the authorised Bangladesh Tourism Board portal, with each ticket carrying a Travel Pass and QR Code.
Any ticket without a QR Code will be treated as counterfeit.
The circular also set strict limits on travel schedules and visitor numbers. In November, tourists will be permitted only during the daytime with no overnight stays; in December and January, overnight stays will be allowed; and in February, the island will remain closed to all tourist travel.
The daily number of visitors must not exceed 2,000.
The guidelines go further, prohibiting entry into the Keya forest, the collection or trade of Keya fruits, and any harm to marine life such as turtles, birds, corals, crabs, starfish and seaweed.
The use of motorcycles, sea bikes or any motorised vehicles on the beach is also banned.
Carrying polythene items is strictly prohibited, tourists are discouraged from bringing single‑use plastics such as chip packets, plastic spoons, straws, mini soap or shampoo packs, and 500ml or 1,000ml plastic bottles. Instead, visitors are urged to carry personal reusable flasks.
Officials stressed that the rules are designed to preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem and turn it into a model for eco‑friendly tourism in Bangladesh.
The urgency of the move was underscored at a high‑level meeting yesterday at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, chaired by Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan.
The session was attended by Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed, representatives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, e‑ticketing system officials and other stakeholders.
The government says the new measures will be enforced immediately, with officials on alert to ensure compliance.