After five days of suspension due to rough seas, boat services on the Teknaf–Saint Martin route have finally resumed. On Sunday at 11 AM, a trawler operated by Md. Arafat left from Khayukkhali Canal in Teknaf Municipality carrying over 50 passengers bound for Saint Martin’s Island.
Prior to that, two more trawlers had already departed. Alongside passengers, the trawlers are also transporting essential supplies.
However, strong winds have once again begun to sweep across the island, causing the sea level to rise.
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin confirmed, “Due to adverse weather, passenger and cargo boat services were suspended for five days.
With improved conditions, boat operations have now resumed. Island residents stranded in Teknaf are returning home, and essential goods are being delivered to Saint Martin’s. One trawler has already reached the island.
Since it is a remote coral island, we’re maintaining constant communication, and local representatives have been instructed to stay alert.”
On-site reports from Khayukkhali Ghat revealed crowds of Saint Martin residents eager to return home. However, while men were allowed to board trawlers, women were denied passage, leaving many distressed and frustrated.
Shamsun Nahar, a resident of Majar Para on Saint Martin’s Island, stood waiting at the jetty with a child in her arms.
“I came for medical treatment and have been stranded in Teknaf for nine days. Now even though boats are running, they’re not allowing women to board,” she added.
She also said that he has no money and is in serious trouble with my child. Her family back on the island is also struggling to access food. No one here is offering any help.
Former Union Chairman of Saint Martin, Nur Ahmed, stated, “Nearly 300 residents of the island came to Teknaf for treatment and other reasons and are now stranded.”
Despite the resumption of trawler operations today, authorities are denying women the right to return. added.
When tourists get stranded on the island due to severe weather, the islanders help them. However, when their own people find themselves stranded in Teknaf, no one provides assistance.
Acting Chairman of Saint Martin Union Parishad, Fayezul Islam, added, “One trawler arrived at the island this morning, bringing some passengers and essential goods.”
But stormy weather has returned, and sea levels are rising again. Truly, the people of the island are suffering greatly, he added.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdur Rashid Manik
