Two tourist ships sailing from Cox's Bazar to Saint Martin's Island were fined Tk1,30,000 by a mobile court for transporting passengers above their capacity.
Ukhiya Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Saleh Ahmed conducted a raid on Saturday morning.
MV Baro Awlia was found transporting 1,070 passengers in a vessel with a capacity of 850 people. On the other hand, MV Karnafuly Express was carrying 850 passengers, 100 more than its capacity.
Hossain Islam Bahadur, in-charge of Karnaphuly Express and the leader of the Ship Owners Association, said that the ships were transporting passengers over their capacity.
Meanwhile, the passengers also lodged complaints against MV Baro Awlia staff of harassment.
Due to the tense situation on the Myanmar border, all ships from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s Island have been suspended since February 10.
“This has resulted in increasing demand from travelers wishing to visit the island during the season. That is why, some ticket counters ended up selling excess tickets,” he added.
