[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Tourism

[Saif]

What needs to be done to visit St Martin’s Island

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has formed a joint committee to regulate tourists and authorised vessels in Saint Martin’s Island.

en.prothomalo.com

What needs to be done to visit St Martin’s Island
Staff Correspondent &
Correspondent
Cox’s Bazar and Teknaf
Updated: 20 Nov 2024, 23: 02

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has formed a joint committee to regulate tourists and authorised vessels in Saint Martin’s Island.

The tourists will have to abide by a set of rules and follow a registration process for visiting Saint Martin’s Island. The newly formed joint committee will look after the entire process.

The committee was formed as per the order of senior assistant secretary of the ministry Sabrina Rahman on Tuesday. The upazila nirbahi officer (UNO) of Cox’s Bazar Sadar and Teknaf upazila has been made the convener of the committee and deputy director of the Department of Environment in Cox’s Bazar has been made the member secretary of the committee.

Representatives from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh Tourism Board in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh Coast Guard and the Tourist Police in Cox’s Bazar will be the members of the committee.

The letter containing the order also describes the entire process to visit Saint Martin’s Island. It says the tourists will have to get the travel pass at the entry point (the place where the passengers will board the ship) through registration using the app developed by the Bangladesh Tourism Board. The committee will ensure that the passengers carrying a travel pass board on an authorised vessel.

A ban has been imposed on the polythene and one-time polythene products on the authorised vehicles. The committee will be strict in this regard.

There will be records on registers regarding the hotels where the tourists are to stay after reaching the island. There will be billboards regarding what is allowed and not allowed for the tourists during the trip at the entry point of Saint Martin’s Island.

Cox’s Bazar office of the Environmental Department will coordinate the entire process. There will be options to further extend the committee for the sake of the work.

Confirming the formation of the committee, Cox’s Bazar additional district magistrate (ADM) Nizam Uddin Ahmed said the members of the committee had already started their work.

When asked, assistant commissioner (AC, land) on additional charge Teknaf UNO and convener of the committee Arif Ullah Nizami told Prothom Alo that he received the copy of the order today. The decision regarding the date of resuming tourism in Saint Martin’s will be taken in consultation with the higher authorities and other members of the committee.

Arif Ullah Nizami said after several days the Myanmar Military and the Arakan Army restarted exchanging fire from Tuesday afternoon, which continued till the afternoon today. There have been incidents of opening fire targeting the Saint Martin’s bound boats from the other side of river Naf.

In this situation, the committee is reconsidering their decision to resume tourism and movement of passenger vessels along river Naf. The committee is prioritising the security of the tourists. They are also searching for an alternative route at the same time.

Relevant sources say on 22 October, the environment ministry decided to limit tourists in Saint Martin's Island in Cox's Bazar during the peak season aiming to protect the country's lone coral island from environmental pollution caused by growing tourists.

Following that, a notification signed by deputy secretary Asma Shaheen published 28 October mentioned about implementing five things.

First, any vessel will have to take permission from the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) and the environment ministry for movement along the Saint Martin’s route. Only after that, the Cox’s Bazar deputy commissioner will be able to issue permission for Saint Martin’s bound vessels and ships.

The notification further said the tourists won’t be allowed to stay at night on the island in November. However, the tourists will be allowed to stay over in the island in the next two months. However, the number of tourists cannot exceed 2,000 a day. Besides, there will be restrictions on turning on the lights at night, creating noise pollution on the island and holding barbecue parties.

However, the movement of the island bound ships is yet to be resumed. The island didn’t receive any tourists in November. The investors of the tourism sector are now divided on the government’s decision.

Former union parishad chairman of Saint Martin’s Island Firoz Khan told Prothom Alo, “Usually tourists start visiting the island from the end of October every year. However, there were problems in running island bound ships and vessels due to the firing in the Rakhine state of Myanmar on the other side of river Naf. Fire was opened targeting the island bound vessels too. After that, an alternative route from the Inani Jetty of the Marine Drive in Cox’s Bazar was introduced. The ships and vessels moved along this new route for several months. However, the residents of the island are frustrated this time as vessel movement hasn’t started this year as yet.”

The incumbent chairman of Saint Martin’s Island Nur Ahmed said, “The residents of the island are not being able to move through trawlers and speedboats even for emergency purposes. Even the residents of the island now have to take permission from the authorities for movement.”​

 

[Saif]

From gravel beds to tourists’ treasure

A couple of decades ago, Panchagarh, the northernmost district of Bangladesh, was primarily known for its abundance of gravel beds. With thousands of acres of land devoted to digging for the resource, the backbone of the region’s rural economy was based on those natural resources.

www.thedailystar.net

From gravel beds to tourists’ treasure
Tourism transforms Panchagarh’s economy

A couple of decades ago, Panchagarh, the northernmost district of Bangladesh, was primarily known for its abundance of gravel beds. With thousands of acres of land devoted to digging for the resource, the backbone of the region's rural economy was based on those natural resources.

However, memories of those days are now found largely in the history books. Panchagarh has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a prime destination for tourism and trade, attracting travellers from Bangladesh and beyond.

Historically, the region did not appeal to visitors due to limited infrastructure and long travel times from the capital of Dhaka.

However, significant developments in the past three decades, from improved road networks to enhanced connectivity, have reshaped the district's fortunes.

Encircled by India on three sides, Panchagarh's location along the lower foothills of the Himalayas offers unique weather and stunning sights, only contributing to its growing appeal.

The region's unique topography offers breathtaking mountain views, while winter's earlier arrival in the district has also made it a seasonal draw for tourists.

In the cool season, temperatures drop as low as 5 degrees Celsius, a welcome relief from the heat in most other parts of the nation.

In terms of natural beauty, one of the most captivating attractions is the view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak.

While the mountain is about 160 kilometres away, its snow-capped splendour can be seen from various spots in Panchagarh between October and November, when the skies are clear.

Every year, thousands of tourists gather along the banks of the Mahananda River in Tetulia, one of the best vantage points, to catch this stunning view.

Beyond the mountain views, Panchagarh is now known for another unique sight: tulip fields.

The favourable climate has allowed farmers to cultivate these vibrant flowers, a rarity in Bangladesh.

Since the first tulips were harvested in 2022, blooming fields have drawn visitors from across the country, marking yet another achievement in the district's growing tourism appeal.

Tea cultivation is also a major part of the local economy.

Panchagarh is the only place in Bangladesh with flatland tea gardens, a feat made possible by the region's elevation from sea level. Tea estates began developing in the 90s, and the district now boasts over 50 estates spanning approximately 10,000 acres.

The tea industry here not only generates revenue but has also bolstered Panchagarh's identity as a producer of world-class, organic teas.

However, although the focus has largely shifted, stone and sand extraction remain a part of the economy, supporting the livelihoods of around 50,000 people.

Sand collected from the rivers, especially fine sand from Bhajanpur, is in high demand for construction projects nationwide, providing a steady source of income for local families.

The region's pride in its humble roots and affinity for geology also shine through in the fact that Panchagarh is home to Bangladesh's only rock museum, which houses ancient rocks as well as artefacts.

For history buffs, the region offers numerous old sites, including the Mirza Shah Mosque, Golokdham Temple and the ruins of Vitorgarh, an ancient fort city built around the 5th century.

Panchagarh's transformation has been supported by the expansion of accommodations and transport options.

With direct bus services from Dhaka, a journey now takes around 8-10 hours.

The addition of trains, along with the government and private sector's interest in hospitality, has significantly improved lodging facilities in the area.

Entrepreneurs and NGOs have opened new hotels, restaurants, and homestays, creating more options for tourists and allowing them to experience local cuisine and the rural landscape.

The district's economic and cultural transformation has made it more than just a viewing point for Kanchenjunga.

It has become a rich blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and economic opportunity.

As Prof Tuhin Wadud, head of the Bangla department at Begum Rokeya University, noted: "Panchagarh's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is a hidden gem that has yet to reach its full potential."

He emphasised the need for a comprehensive master plan from the government to develop the region's tourism and tea sectors, making them even more attractive to international visitors.

Panchagarh's journey from a hub of stone extraction to a centre of tourism and trade highlights its potential for growth and development. This shift is not only a testament to the district's resilience but also a promising vision for the future, where nature, culture, and commerce come together to shape a vibrant local economy, he added.

Atiqur Rahman had come to visit Tetulia from Khulna and enjoy the views of Kanchenjunga with his friends.

In what was his third visit in the past 5 years, he finally found success and caught a glimpse of the peak.

He pointed out several reasons for the district's appeal, chiefly a mix of natural and historical attractions.

Besides, Kanchenjunga, the hills of Darjeeling and Siliguri are also visible, he said.​

 

[Saif]

Restrictions won’t harm St Martin's tourism industry, says Adviser Hassan Ariff

The recent restriction on tourists to St. Martin's Island will not negatively impact the tourism industry, said Aviation and Tourism Adviser AF Hassan Ariff on Friday. Speaking at the 'Asia International Trade Fair' at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, Ariff responded to concerns

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Restrictions won’t harm St Martin's tourism industry, says Adviser Hassan Ariff
UNB
Published :
Nov 22, 2024 21:57
Updated :
Nov 22, 2024 21:57

The recent restriction on tourists to St. Martin's Island will not negatively impact the tourism industry, said Aviation and Tourism Adviser AF Hassan Ariff on Friday.

Speaking at the 'Asia International Trade Fair' at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, Ariff responded to concerns raised by journalists about the restrictions.

He explained that controlling tourist numbers is a common practice in many countries to preserve the environment and ensure sustainability at popular tourist destinations.

"St. Martin's is the only coral island in Bangladesh, and like any other tourist spot, it has a specific capacity," he said.

"Imagine a 10-bed hotel trying to accommodate 30 guests-everything would be chaotic, from the washrooms to the kitchens. Similarly, the island has already suffered due to overcrowding. Limiting the number of visitors will help prevent further damage," he added.

Ariff highlighted that the excessive number of tourists, along with the rise in plastic waste, has taken a toll on the island's corals, which are now at a critical stage.

He assured that the government is committed to preserving the island by investing in renovation efforts and imposing limits on tourist numbers to ensure the island's long-term viability.

The move is part of a broader effort to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring that St. Martin's remains a vibrant destination for future generations.

In response to a question about potential rehabilitation for affected businessmen, Hassan Ariff suggested that those involved in tourism operations should conduct a survey to assess the island's capacity before bringing in tourists.

He emphasized that simply bringing large groups without considering the island's limits would not contribute to sustainable tourism. "Just as playing loud music isn't entertainment, gathering a group and using a microphone isn't proper tourism," he said.
​

 

[Saif]

Tourism in Cox’s Bazar gaining momentum

With temperatures around Bangladesh dropping ahead of winter, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions around Cox’s Bazar are being crowded by visitors.

www.thedailystar.net

Tourism in Cox’s Bazar gaining momentum

Cox’s Bazar, the longest unbroken sea beach in the world, was relatively quiet even a few days ago, but now the air is alive with the bustle of holidaymakers. Photo: Mokammel Shuvo

With temperatures around Bangladesh dropping ahead of winter, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions around Cox's Bazar are being crowded by visitors.

The longest unbroken beach in the world was relatively quiet even a few days ago, but now the air is alive with the bustle of holidaymakers.

This has breathed fresh life into the businesses of tom-tom riders, photographers, jet ski riders, horse riders and roaming vendors that dot the beachside city.

The local tourism industry has been left out in the lurch since July, when student-led protests against the Awami League government caused disruptions in transport.

Since then, political uncertainty and inclement weather have repeatedly led to disruptions in tourist movement.

This prolonged lack of visitors to the country's premier tourist destination plunged the local economy into a sort of recession, industry insiders said.

Now, with crisp wintry winds filling the air, business appears to have come back on track, bringing smiles to the many big and small stakeholders.

They now expect plentiful business, especially with many students set to get holidays after examinations in the winter.

Akram Hossain, who takes tourists along to ride the waves on a jet ski, said there are around 40 jet skis along the beach. Most earn Tk 15,000 to Tk 20,000 per day if they find an adequate number of customers.

He was beaming, saying that the brisk business he was enjoying had already earned him a Tk 700 bonus.

Another smiling face belonged to Saiful, a horse rider at the Shughandah beach.

He said they earn Tk 1,500 to Tk 1,800 per day from offering rides on local horses while rides on imported foreign breeds can fetch over Tk 5,000 per day.

For the past few months, they could earn only Tk 300 to Tk 400 per day he lamented.

Nazmul Hossain said he and his family had come to enjoy their vacation just prior to the peak season as he was concerned that costs would escalate when business was in full swing.

Abul Kasim Sikdar, president of the Cox's Bazar Hotel Motel Resort Owners' Association, said: "Every day around 30,000 to 35,000 tourists are visiting Cox's Bazar. But even more are expected to arrive after the end of the examinations in December."

He hoped for good business in December, January and February.

"A tourism fair with attractive cultural programmes will kick off possibly in mid-December. The tourists will surely enjoy that fair," he said.

He added that the law-and-order situation is much better now.

Many hotels and resorts are also giving discounts to tourists this month, he said.​

 

[Saif]

HC upholds govt decision to limit tourism at St Martin's Island

The High Court (HC) on Tuesday upheld a government decision to limit tourism on the Saint Martin's Island citing environment conservation after dismissing a writ petition filed by a local, who mentioned job shortages due to the verdict. The HC bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Mubina Asa

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

HC upholds govt decision to limit tourism at St Martin's Island
FE REPORT
Published :
Dec 04, 2024 08:54
Updated :
Dec 04, 2024 08:54

The High Court (HC) on Tuesday upheld a government decision to limit tourism on the Saint Martin's Island citing environment conservation after dismissing a writ petition filed by a local, who mentioned job shortages due to the verdict.

The HC bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Mubina Asaf passed the order after hearing on the writ petition filed by one Mohammad Abdul Malek, who is a resident of Saint Martin.

The writ petition sought withdrawal of the government decision restricting the number of tourists on the island.

Deputy Attorney General Mahfuz Bin Yousuf told reporters that the government's decision to limit tourism in Saint Martin's Island will remain effective following the HC order.

The writ petitioner's lawyer Mohammad Sultan Mahmud said the HC passed the order saying, "The government is relaxing the restriction on tourism on the island."

The government imposed tourism restriction on October 28 for a few months as part of its efforts to ensure a considerate public attitude for the environment of the tourist spot, he added.

The decision permitted tourists on Saint Martin's Island, but did not allow them to stay during the nights in November. However, it allows overnight stays in December and January with the condition that the island houses a maximum of 2,000 tourists per day.

The island will remain closed to tourists in February, when cleaning and conservation initiatives will be conducted.

Employment opportunities for people in the island became extremely narrow due to the government decision, Mohammad Abdul Malek said in the writ petition. Many residence of the island became jobless as a result and are living in inhuman conditions, the petition also read.​