Residents of Saint Martin’s Island formed a human chain and held a protest rally demanding the withdrawal of restrictions on tourist visits to the island.
The program took place around 2:30 p.m. on Friday, April 3, in the market area adjacent to the jetty ghat. It was organized by people from all walks of life in Saint Martin’s Union, with widespread participation from local residents.
Participants called for ensuring the unrestricted movement of tourists to the island, reopening travel for all citizens, and resuming passenger vessel operations.
Former chairman of Saint Martin’s union, Maulana Firoz Ahmed, attended the event as the chief guest. Among others, Maulana Habibur Rahman, ameer of the local unit of the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and Ziaur Rahman, joint convener of the local unit of Jubo Dal, also addressed the gathering.
Speakers said that prolonged restrictions on tourism activities have left the island’s economy stagnant. They noted that residents, who are heavily dependent on tourism, are facing severe financial hardship.
They urged the relevant government authorities to lift the restrictions immediately and restore normal tourism operations.
A brief protest demonstration was also held after the Human Chains program.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
