Tourist travel to St Martin’s Island in Teknaf will remain suspended for nine months from February 1, in line with a government decision. January 31 was the final day of tourist vessel operations for the current season.
Until further notice, no tourist vessels will be allowed to operate on the St Martin’s route.
However, despite the suspension of tourist travel, people from certain professions and categories will be allowed to visit the island with special permission from the authorities.
According to officials, local residents, government officials and individuals travelling for emergency purposes will be able to travel to St Martin’s by trawler upon obtaining special permission.
Those eligible for such permission include journalists on assignment, owners and employees of privately owned or leased resorts, individuals engaged in official government or non-government duties, participants in medical campaigns, volunteers involved in beach-cleaning activities and researchers.
To travel to St Martin’s during the off-season, applicants must obtain written permission from the Teknaf upazila nirbahi officer (UNO).
Applications must explicitly articulate the purpose of travel and provide supporting documentation.
Applications can also be submitted through an app called My St Martin’s.
Permission will be granted after verification, provided the information submitted is found to be accurate.
Officials said speedboats operate on the St Martin’s route when sea conditions are favourable, while passenger trawlers operate throughout the year.
Usually, two trawlers depart daily from Teknaf Ghat around 10:00am or 11:00am, with two return trips from St Martin’s Ghat at the same time. However, schedules may change depending on tidal conditions.
By Mohammad Morshed
Cox’s Bazar Life Photo
