Movement if number of tourists to St Martin's limited: TOAB

President of Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) Mohammed Rafiuzzaman has threatened a greater movement against any 'negative decision' on the Saint Martin's island ahead of the tourism season, reports UNB.

He said the government can work together with the stakeholders of the tourism sector to protect both the environment and the tourism industry considering the large contributions of tourism sector in the economy.

The TOAB president said this while speaking at a press conference as the chief guest at Economic Reporters' Forum (ERF) auditorium in the capital on Saturday.

Saint Martin Poribesh and Parjatan Oikya Unnayan Jote organised the press conference protesting the government's recent move to limit tourists and overnight stay on the island.

"Tourists can travel to Saint Martin's island from November to February in a year. The livelihood of thousands of people involved in the tourism sector in Coxs Bazar and Saint Martin would be hampered," said Rafiuzzaman.

He said comprehensive policy should be formulated for the island, allowing tourism activities in accordance with the policy.

Saint Martin Poribesh and Parjatan Oikya Unnayan Jote placed a 19-point demand to protect the tourism industry and the livelihood of the residents of the island.