The Bangladeshi government has increased the daily visitor capacity for Saint Martin’s Island from 2,000 to 3,500, while simultaneously extending the overnight stay period from two months to four and a half months. Environmental experts have expressed concern regarding this decision, noting that the island is designated as an ecologically critical area. Critics argue that there is no updated scientific evidence to support the island's capacity to handle the additional strain on its water supplies, waste management infrastructure, and natural habitats. Furthermore, observers highlight that existing facilities were already struggling to manage the previous limit of 2,000 daily visitors. The influx of tourists is expected to exacerbate challenges related to sewage disposal, rubbish accumulation, and beach degradation, prompting calls for a more thorough assessment of the island's environmental resilience before implementing these expanded tourism policies.
Source : Prothom Alo
Photo : Prothom Alo
