Sundarbans reopens after three months, tourist numbers down due to rain, storms

The authorities have reopened the Sundarbans to tourists, fishermen, woodcutters, and honey collectors after a three-month-long closure.

On Tuesday, the first day since the lifting of the restriction, visitor numbers remained low owing to rain and storms. 

For the same reason, many tourists were unable to enter the forest.

Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, divisional forest officer (DFO) of Sundarbans East Forest Division, said around 300 domestic and foreign tourists visited the Sundarbans on the first day. 

He noted that visitor turnout was low due to adverse weather conditions.

Mashiur Rahman, assistant conservator of forests (ACF) for Satkhira Range, said 159 vessel passes had been issued by 2pm on the first day.

Through these vessels, over 400 fishermen and woodcutters obtained permission to enter the forest.

He said that 2,938 Boat Licence Certificates (BLCs) have been renewed this season from four stations in the Satkhira Range for fishing and ecotourism. 

The Kalagachia and Dobeki ecotourism centres have also been kept ready for tourists.

To ensure the uninterrupted breeding and movement of fish and wildlife, entry into the Sundarbans, as well as fishing, crab harvesting, honey collection, and tourism activities, are suspended every year from Jun 1 to Aug 31.