C T Online Desk: Saint Martin’s Island, the one and only coral island of Bangladesh, has been experiencing an increase in water levels due to the full moon’s tidal influence.
Several houses collapsed on Friday in the coastal area of Saint Martin’s Island due to strong winds and heavy rainfall.
More than ten thousand people living on the eight-square-kilometre island in the Bay of Bengal are currently at risk in these precarious weather conditions.
Recently, Saint Martin’s was hit by cyclone Mocha, which wreaked havoc and damaged numerous homes on the island.
Now, with the unfavourable weather conditions continuing, the residents are facing yet another challenge.
Joynal Abedin, a resident of Saint Martin’s Iceland, said the wind speed has increased since morning, accompanied by heavy rainfall.
“The sea level has risen several feet higher than normal, leading to the collapse of some houses on the island,” he said adding that the Deil Para, Uttar Para, Dakkhin Para and Golachipa areas of the island have been severely affected by the tidal surge.
Saint Martin’s Union Parishad Member Mohammad Khorshed said that the sea level on the island has risen significantly, causing damage to several houses belonging to the island’s residents.
“Some parts of the coastline have eroded, and if prompt measures are not taken, the existence of the island itself will be at risk,” he voiced concern.
Saint Martin’s Island Union Parishad Chairman Mujibur Rahman said that the water level on the island has risen three to four feet higher than usual.
“As a result, certain parts of the northern and southeastern areas of the island are facing erosion,” he said.
Threats to Saint Martin’s Island’s biodiversity
Saint Martin’s is the only pristine island in Bangladesh. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, the island has been a favourite destination for tourists. However, it is now facing the threat of disappearing.
A report on the Saint Martin’s Island was presented in the relevant parliamentary committee under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change last Sunday.
According to the report, several species of aquatic animals are disappearing from the beaches of Saint Martin’s despite being declared an ecologically sensitive area 24 years ago and a marine protected area a year and a half ago.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, various coral species, including king crabs, snails, oysters, turtles have already disappeared.
