St Martin’s power tariff hike raises tourism concerns

Dhaka: Businesses and residents on St Martin’s Island are facing mounting financial pressure after electricity supplier Blue Marine Energy Limited increased its tariffs, raising concerns ahead of the tourism season.

Effective November 1, the residential rate rose by BDT 10 to BDT 52 per unit, while commercial consumers will pay BDT 62 per unit. The increase has prompted protests and a threat of legal action from Acting Saint Martin’s Union Council.

More than 150 consumers took part in a human-chain demonstration outside Euro-Bangla Resort on October 21, demanding relief. Residents and hotel operators say they receive barely three hours of electricity daily despite paying high rates. They have also questioned deductions recorded by electricity meters.

Blue Marine Energy defended the increase, citing rising operating costs and growing seasonal demand. It said the island’s 230 hotels and 200 restaurants could require up to 600 kilowatts during peak periods, while the solar facility currently generates only 138 kilowatts.

The company also faces high diesel transportation costs, power theft at battery-operated vehicle charging points and deteriorating batteries awaiting replacement parts from China. It plans to operate diesel generators during the tourist season to address the shortfall.

However, environmentalists warn that generator noise could threaten sea turtle nesting. Officials say noise pollution and easy-bike operations will be regulated during the four-and-a-half-month season.

Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi said the administration had not been formally informed of the tariff increase and was examining the matter. A government-backed solar project is also being planned to address the island’s long-term electricity needs.