Sundarbans Reopens to Tourists and Fishermen After Ban

The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reopened on Monday to fishermen and tourists after a three-month seasonal closure.

Access to the forest was restricted from June 1 to August 31 to protect fish and wildlife during their breeding period. With the ban now lifted, local fishermen, forest-dependent communities, and domestic and foreign visitors can enter with prior permission.

After months of silence, the forest is expected to regain its vibrancy as tourists return and locals resume their livelihood. Fishermen in Sharankhola and Shyamnagar were seen repairing boats and trawlers, while tour operators refurbished their vessels in anticipation of renewed activity.

However, fishermen complained of severe hardship during the closure, citing the absence of alternative income opportunities. Many demanded the restriction be reduced to two months, arguing that families in Koyra, Paikgachha, Dacope and Sharankhola upazilas struggle to survive without fishing.

Md Khalilur Rahman, Station Officer of Sharankhola Range (East Sundarbans), said both fishermen and tourists are now permitted to enter. “Ahead of the reopening, we organised an awareness meeting with local communities to share necessary guidelines,” he added.