The government has imposed a nine–month ban on tourist travel to Saint Martin’s Island, the country’s only coral island, to protect its environment and biodiversity. The current tourism season ended yesterday, in line with a decision by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. From today, vessels carrying tourists will not be allowed to travel to the island.

Tourists are usually allowed on Saint Martin’s from October 1 to March 31 each year, but authorities cut the current season short to January 31 citing environmental risks and excessive visitor pressure.

“The ships bound for Saint Martin’s carried tourists for the last time yesterday, as per the schedule,” said Cox’s Bazar Additional District Magistrate Mohammad Shahidul Alam. “No tourist vessels will be allowed to operate from today.” He added that the administration would take necessary steps if the government revises its decision in future.

Local authorities say the extended absence of tourists will allow the natural habitats of Saint Martin’s coral reefs, marine turtles, birds, king crabs, molluscs, and other marine life to recover. The island’s fragile ecosystem has been severely damaged by excessive tourist numbers and violations of environmental regulations.

Environmental experts argue that as Bangladesh’s only coral island, even a minor ecological imbalance on Saint Martin’s could cause significant long–term damage. They say a prolonged shutdown of tourism will therefore play a crucial role in conservation efforts.

The ban has, however, raised anxiety among the island’s business community and residents. “Many businessmen have been unable to recoup their investments this season, with most making losses rather than profits,” said Abdur Rahman, president of the Saint Martin Hotel, Motel and Resort Owners Association. “The absence of tourists will increase hardship for people here over the coming months.”