The Navy jetty at Inani Beach in Cox's Bazar has collapsed, splitting in two, following tidal surges in the Bay of Bengal.
Locals suspect that the incident was caused due to the approaching Cyclone Dana.
The destruction of the jetty has created additional complications for travel to Saint Martin's Island.
On Thursday, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Tanveer Hossain confirmed the jetty's collapse and said that efforts are underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.
Locals said that the sea was somewhat turbulent due to the cyclone. The highest tide occurred around 3am last night, during which the jetty was struck by a barge that was tied to it.
Locals also said that they heard loud noises throughout the night as the barge was buffeted by the wind.
The Bangladesh Navy constructed the jetty in 2020 for an international naval exercise during Sheikh Hasina's government. Environmentalists have protested against its construction, arguing that it disrupts the long beach.
In 2022, following a writ petition filed by the Cox's Bazar Citizen Forum, the High Court issued a ruling for the removal of the jetty.
Since last year, tourist vessels have been operating through the jetty to Saint Martin's Island, and shipping companies were preparing for travel to the island starting November 1.
