Boat movement between Teknaf and Saint Martin in Cox’s Bazar has been suspended for six consecutive days due to rough weather, severely disrupting daily life on the country’s only coral island. The suspension has particularly affected Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinees who are struggling to reach examination centers.

Local social worker M. Nur Mohammad said that the halt in boat operations has caused extreme hardship for both students and residents. Acting chairman of Saint Martin Union Parishad, Fayezul Islam, stated that the suspension began last Thursday and warned that if it continues, the island could face a serious food shortage. Upazila Nirbahi Officer S. M. Anik Chowdhury confirmed that the suspension is temporary and that authorities have been informed about the students’ situation.

Officials indicated that the resumption of boat services depends on weather improvement, while residents remain concerned about essential supplies and mobility.