In the vast and tumultuous waters of the Bay of Bengal lies a small island that has played an outsized role in shaping the political history of Bangladesh. Known as St. Martin Island, this tiny piece of land, spanning just three square kilometers, is often at the center of geopolitical discussions.
Some believe that this island was a significant factor in former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's loss of power, highlighting its crucial role in the country's political dynamics. But St. Martin Island is just one of many in Bangladesh, a country with a staggering number of islands, estimated to be between 700 and 1,000.
These islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, form a unique part of Bangladesh's geography, with some even disappearing over time due to natural processes. The Islands of Bangladesh: A Diverse and Dynamic Landscape Among the myriad islands in Bangladesh, Bhola stands out as the largest. Spanning approximately 3,402 square kilometers, Bhola, also known as Dakhin Shahbazpur, is located at the mouth of the Meghna River.
This island has a rich history and a significant population of around 1.7 million people, predominantly Muslims. Over the centuries, Bhola's shape has evolved due to river erosion, with large parts of it now at risk of submersion due to its low elevation of just six feet above sea level.
St. Martin Island, though much smaller, is equally significant. Located about nine kilometers south of Cox's Bazar, this coral island is famous for its stunn.