The local administration has decided to suspend tourist ship operations on the Teknaf-St Martin's route due to rough weather.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kamruzzaman confirmed the matter on Sunday.
He said: “No tourist ship from Teknaf was allowed to go to Saint Martin's Island to avoid accidents. Tourists who had bought tickets have been directed to refund their money.”
The UNO also said: “Law enforcement forces have been asked to be vigilant so that tourists staying on the island are not harassed. Besides, tourists have been instructed not to go down on the beach. The ship operations will resume after the weather returns to normal.”
Saint Martin Union Parishad Chairman Mujibur Rahman said: "Thousands of tourists are staying in Saint Martin's coral island. They were supposed to go back today. But they have to stay one more day on the island as the ship operations are suspended.”
He also said: "The weather on the island is normal. However, tourists are being warned to take a shower in the sea.”
Mohammad Aziz, a businessman from Dhaka who came on a trip to Saint Martin's Island, said: "I got stuck on a trip with my family. Many have been stranded while visiting. No ships will come to the island today due to the rough seas. As a result, we have to stay on the island for one more day.”
Shah Alam, manager of tourist ship Carey Sindbad Teknaf, said: "No ship went to the island due to rough seas and hostile weather. Many tourists are stranded on the island. They will be brought back when the weather is normal.”