Saint Martin’s Island, which was closed for months, will open again for visitors starting November 1 until February. But this time, there will be some new rules.
Only 2,000 people will be allowed to visit the island each day. Before, there was no limit on how many people could go.
In November and December, visitors can only come for day trips. From January, tourists will be allowed to stay overnight.
This plan was made with the Ministry of Environment to protect the island’s coral reefs and environment.
Saint Martin’s Island is the only coral island in Bangladesh. But the coral reefs are in danger because of human activities.
Corals look like rocks, but they are actually living animals that grow very slowly. They help keep the ocean and island healthy.
A study by Dhaka University shows that many coral species on the island have decreased over the years. Pollution, plastic use, and too many tourists are causing this damage.
The island is also called Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island) because it has many coconut trees. It has white sandy beaches and clear water where you can see your feet.
If you want to visit, you can come now for a day trip and enjoy the beautiful beach, coconut water, and ocean view. But if you want to stay overnight and watch the stars at night, plan your visit in January.
Visitors must follow some important rules:
- Register through an app made by the Bangladesh Tourism Board to visit.
- No use of plastic bags or single-use plastic items allowed.
- Do not take corals or shells from the island.
- No loud noises, BBQ parties, fires, or bright lights at night.
There are signs at the island entrance that explain what visitors can and cannot do.
Even with these rules, Saint Martin’s Island is still a beautiful place to visit. It is a special treasure of Bangladesh, and we must protect it.
If you have never visited this coral island, now is a good chance to see its beauty while it lasts.