Traders demanded reconsideration of the government's decision to restrict tourists in Cox’s Bazar’s Saint Martin island.
The Tour Operators Association made the demand at a human chain in front of Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner’s Office on Sunday.
They said that if the number of tourists was reduced, about 300,000 people including locals and small traders will lose their livelihood.
At the same time, about Tk1,500 crore of the investors in the tourism sector will be threatened, they added.
According to the traders, employees associated with seven-eight ships, 200-300 buses, 100 microbuses, 120 hotel-cottage of 70 restaurants, as well as 200 tour operators and 400 tourist guides would face risks of losing their livelihood.
According to the guidelines provided by the government regarding tourism in Saint Martin, no more than 900 tourists can stay at the same time. The tourists would have to provide a VAT of Tk100 for the trip as well.
The traders said that the decision was suicidal and called for a reform in the guidelines.
