Dhaka: The High Court (HC) today scrapped a writ petition that pleaded to withdraw government restriction on tourists traveling to Saint Martin's to protect the island's environment. A High Court division bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Mubina Asaf passed the order after holding a hearing on the matter, deputy attorney general Mahfuz Bin Eusuf told newsmen. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Saint Martin inhabitant Abdul Malik filed the plea on November 18. The petition sought to lift the travel restrictions imposed by the government to safeguard the ecological balance of the island. The court's decision to dismiss the writ reinforces the government's measures aimed at environmental conservation. The government, on October 28, had instructed officials, including the Cox's Bazar deputy commissioner, to enforce a series of decisions aimed at curbing uncontrolled tourism and reducing the use of single-use plastic on the island. These measures are part of a broader initiative to preserve the natural habitat and biodiversity of Saint Martin's Island, which has been under pressure due to increased tourist activities.
