Ending a 10-month wait, tourist vessel services have resumed on the Cox’s Bazar-Saint Martin’s route. On the first day of the season, the vessel MV Baro Aulia reached Saint Martin’s Island carrying 836 tourists, triggering a festive atmosphere among local residents.

Local people and leaders and activists of various social and political organizations welcomed the tourists with flowers and sweets upon their arrival.

On Thursday (November 5), the vessel departed from Nuniachhara Ghat on the Bankkhali River in Cox’s Bazar city at 7:50 am with 836 passengers on board. It reached the island around noon, spreading joy and excitement among residents.

The suspension of tourist travel for a prolonged period had brought a slowdown to the island’s tourism-dependent businesses. With the resumption of vessel services, hopes have returned among hotel and motel owners, restaurant operators, transport workers and small traders.

Tourist couple Raiyan and Nafisa from Uttara in Dhaka, who visited the island with their family on the opening day of the season, said they had long wanted to visit Saint Martin’s.

“We are delighted to be among the first tourists to visit the island this season. The warm welcome from local residents after our arrival particularly impressed us,” they said.

Regarding permission for vessel operations and overall arrangements, Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner MA Mannan said special permission had been granted for one vessel on November 5, taking into account the long wait of tourists and the local economy.

However, he said protecting the island’s environment and biodiversity remained the administration’s top priority.

He added that all government directives and conditions imposed by the Ministry of Environment must be strictly followed. The district administration would take strict legal action against tourists or tourism-related individuals who violate the rules.

Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) SM Anik Chowdhury said the resumption of tourist visits had brought renewed activity and enthusiasm among local residents.

He stressed that government directives and environmental protection must receive the highest priority in conducting tourism activities.

He also said the administration would maintain necessary monitoring to ensure tourists could travel safely without causing damage to the island’s natural environment.

Locals and tourism stakeholders believe that planned tourism management, while preserving Saint Martin’s natural beauty and biodiversity, could benefit both the environment and the local economy.

They stressed the importance of responsible conduct by tourists, business owners and all concerned, alongside strict compliance with government restrictions.