# St. Martin’s Island to Limit Tourist Access to 4km Zone to Prevent Environmental Damage

> To restore St. Martin’s Island’s endangered biodiversity, the government plans controlled tourism, limiting movement to four kilometers and capping daily visitors at 900 in Zone 1, where all hotels will be concentrated.…

Published: 2026-01-12 · Desk: Latest · Source: Prothom Alo

The government plans to introduce controlled tourism on St. Martin’s Island, the country’s only coral island, to restore its lost biodiversity caused by excessive tourist pressure. A draft master plan proposes limiting tourist movement to within four kilometers of the island. Previously, 7,193 tourists used to stay overnight, double the island’s carrying capacity, leading to coral collection, boat pollution, and beach litter, putting coral ecosystems at risk.

The plan divides the eight-square-kilometer island into four zones. Zone 1, the “general use area,” will host all hotels and resorts and allow tourists to stay overnight, with a daily limit of 900 visitors. Zone 2, the “controlled resource area,” will serve as a buffer to protect sensitive habitats, banning harmful agriculture, fires, and beach cooking. Zone 3, the “sustainable management area,” prioritizes biodiversity conservation, prohibiting settlements and infrastructure. Zone 4 includes Cheradia Island, with restricted access; tourists can view it from 500–1,000 meters away.

St. Martin’s population of 9,885 relies on fishing and tourism, and controlled tourism may impact their income. Alternative livelihoods and climate fund projects are planned to support locals. The master plan, spanning ten years with a 5.5 crore BDT budget, aims to restore green cover, mangroves, and coral species while ensuring sustainable land use and community involvement.

Original reporting: https://www.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/environment/wxcclcro2j?fbclid=IwZnRzaAPQlV1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeItoJ9VMWCZVDPgbgBSKC3Yyzk8lg1F5YYmMje7zHE0c28mVX0zaWsidxMdc_aem_E2eY4XzOau9auXDYmglqcw
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