The restriction on tourist visits to St. Martin’s Island, Cox’s Bazar, has helped preserve the environment but has plunged around 4,500 stray dogs into a dire crisis. With the island nearly devoid of tourists and most hotels and restaurants closed, the dogs have lost their primary food source. As a result, many are starving, and in some heartbreaking cases, they are resorting to eating the remains of deceased dogs to survive.
Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad, Livestock Officer of Teknaf Upazila, said, “In the past, the lack of a sterilization program allowed the dog population to grow uncontrollably. These dogs used to survive on leftover food from locals and restaurants. But now, with tourism halted, even that source has dried up, pushing the dogs into a severe food crisis, with some resorting to scavenging the bodies of other dogs.”
Local Residents Also Suffer
Tourism is the economic lifeline of most island residents. With travel restricted, locals face extreme financial hardship. Meanwhile, desperate, starving dogs roam the island in search of food, sometimes attacking people—adding another layer of distress to the residents’ already difficult situation.
Promise of Solutions
Dr. Azad stated that relevant authorities have been recommended to introduce a sterilization program to control the dog population. Additionally, with the help of private organizations, efforts are underway to provide regular food supplies for the dogs. However, experts believe a lasting solution will require coordinated action from the administration, livestock department, and local communities.
If immediate and sustainable measures are not taken, the unique biodiversity of St. Martin’s Island and the well-being of its people and animals could face an even more severe threat.
By Rajin Saleh
Photo: Hussain Shetu
