Dhaka, Oct. 22 -- The Ministry of Environment and Forest has announced that vessels travelling to St Martin's Island will now require its approval alongside the shipping ministry's clearance, aiming to protect the island's unique natural beauty, ecosystem, and biodiversity.

A ministry statement on Wednesday said the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) cannot permit any vessel to operate to the island without the environment ministry's authorisation.

Tourists must purchase tickets online through Bangladesh Tourism Board-approved portals, with each ticket carrying a travel pass and QR code.

Tickets without QR codes will be considered invalid. Tourist schedules and island presence will be strictly controlled: in November, ...