The Teknaf-Saint Martin’s Island waterway has been shut down for all passenger ferries, speedboats, and fishing vessels due to escalating conflict in Myanmar, local authorities announced on Wednesday (November 11).

The Teknaf Upazila administration enforced the restriction following public warnings issued via loudspeakers. The suspension has left the 10,000 residents of Saint Martin’s Island, who rely entirely on Teknaf for food and essential supplies, facing an alarming shortage.

“This is peak tourism season,” said Abdur Rashid, President of the Teknaf-Saint Martin's Boat Owners Association. “Around 2,000 tourists visit the island daily. Without this route, the island’s residents and businesses are on the verge of a severe crisis.”

Residents have voiced urgent concerns about dwindling supplies. “We are on the brink of a food shortage,” said Abdul Malek, a local resident. “We urge the authorities to establish alternative transport routes immediately to ensure the flow of essential goods.”

Abdu Rahim Jihadi, President of the Saint Martin Hotel and Guesthouse Association, highlighted the broader impact on tourism. “With tourists and residents completely dependent on Teknaf for food supplies, the situation demands swift action,” he stressed.
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin explained that heightened security risks near Myanmar’s Rakhine region, now under Arakan Army control, necessitated the suspension. However, he assured that efforts are underway to establish alternative means to transport goods and essentials.

As the crisis unfolds, residents and business owners are urging authorities to expedite measures to prevent a worsening humanitarian and economic fallout on the island.
 

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