Dhaka, Aug 08 (V7N)- The interim government is actively working on a comprehensive master plan to preserve and restore the environment of St. Martin’s Island, the country’s only coral island.

Dipankar Bor, Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, said on Friday (August 8) that efforts are underway to finalize the master plan, alongside initiatives to manage waste and explore alternative income sources for local residents.

“Our goal is to control the tourism system on the island in a sustainable way, reducing damage to its natural environment and making St. Martin’s a healthy and vibrant place once again,” he said.

A ministry press release highlighted several groundbreaking steps taken over the past year to protect the environment, conserve forests and biodiversity, and combat climate change.

Among the key achievements is a nationwide ban on the use of polythene in shopping malls to reduce pollution. The government is also conducting joint operations with law enforcement agencies to prevent polythene production and distribution at factories and raw material markets.

The ministry has partnered with the Ministry of Textiles and Jute to ensure affordable jute bags as an eco-friendly alternative to polythene.

In addition, a ‘National Air Quality Management Plan’ has been developed to control air pollution. As part of enforcement measures, 830 illegal brick kilns have been shut down, and Savar and Ashulia in Dhaka are in the process of being declared ‘polluted atmosphere’ areas. Illegal lead factories have been closed, and youth initiatives have been launched to raise awareness and prevent noise pollution.

END/RH/AJ