St. Martin's Island: Next in the line of fire

Recently, Tullow Bangladesh Ltd. is planning to conduct seismic survey and exploration drilling at St. Martin's Island. It is high time that Bangladeshis should raise their voices against any attempts that carry potential threats to the destruction of the natural heritages of the country. The marine life/ecosystem around St. Martin's Island is a unique ecosystem in its physical and geological composition. The coral-like reef ecosystem is very different from any of the other coral ecosystems found around the globe. Further, the island provides nesting beaches for four of the globally endangered sea turtle species viz., Leatherback, Hawksbill, Green turtle and Olive Ridley. As per the country's laws the oil and gas exploration licence should automatically be treated as null and void since the declaration of some areas under Blocks 17 & 18 are declared as protected.

St. Martin's Island is our national pride, a jewel of the northern Bay of Bengal and no activities of potential hazard, like gas exploration, should be allowed to destroy or disturb the sanctity and sanctuary of marine bio-diversity. This is a national issue and there should be a public debate on such issues of national interest.