Popular content creator and travel vlogger Salahuddin Sumon has criticized the lack of development at Saint Martin’s Island, saying the government failed to utilize the nearly 10-month closure of the country’s only coral island. He made the remarks during an interview on a private television channel, where he also presented video footage from his recent visit to the island.
Saint Martin’s Island reopened fully two months ago after remaining closed for environmental and administrative reasons. However, Sumon said visitors are now being greeted by the same broken railings, exposed concrete, and damaged infrastructure that existed before the closure. “From the jetty itself, disappointment begins,” he said, questioning why no visible renovation was carried out during such a long shutdown.
Sumon also described the internal condition of the island as poor, noting that plastic sheets and temporary structures dominate several areas. According to him, such conditions undermine the island’s image as a premium tourist destination and discourage foreign visitors.
During the interview, Sumon expanded his criticism to Bangladesh’s overall tourism strategy. He said the country possesses extraordinary natural beauty but lacks proper planning, structural development, and security measures. “We have all the elements to attract foreign tourists, but without planning and structure, that potential remains unused,” he said.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s unique landscapes, Sumon pointed to the scenic rice fields visible during aircraft landings, the winter beauty of North Bengal, and the charm of South Bengal during the rainy season. Despite these attractions, he said Bangladesh fails to compete globally as tourists do not find sufficient opportunities to spend due to weak tourism infrastructure.
“People from abroad come prepared to spend money, but there is no organized scope for them here,” Sumon said, adding that many countries with fewer natural advantages are successfully attracting foreign tourists.
He also expressed disappointment over what he described as a long-standing lack of government initiative in the tourism sector. “No government has shown serious interest in creating opportunities through tourism,” he said.
Saint Martin’s Island, located in the Bay of Bengal, remains a symbol of both Bangladesh’s tourism potential and its management challenges. Sumon’s remarks and visual documentation have reignited discussions on the need for a clear tourism vision, sustainable development, and immediate action to preserve and promote the country’s natural destinations.
