Research Papers

This research explores the possibilities of creating futuristic sustainable towns on detached islands, interconnected through a blue economy framework. The islands of Kutubdia, Maheshkhali, and Sonadia represent one of the largest fishing zones in Bangladesh, referred to as the ‘South Patches,’ which stretch 120 kilometers westward from the coastline. However, this area is prone to maritime piracy, land erosion, criminal activities, maritime terrorism, and overall detachment from the mainland. Creating a holistic triad among these three islands while connecting to the mainland offers a comprehensive strategy that integrates civic, business, and security development in these islands. Civilian development includes areas such as education, healthcare, transportation, inland connectivity, and agriculture. Sustainable business development focuses on fishery, salt production, tourism, energy, shipping, international trade, seaports, marine aquaculture and biotechnology, renewable energy, transportation, tidal hydro-power, and oil and gas. In terms of security threats, the threats are both traditional, such as piracy and non-state terrorism, as well as nontraditional, including land erosion, rising sea levels, and the loss of forests and mangrove ecosystems. This research explores feasible solutions to these challenges through a holistic comprehensive development and a sea-based blue economy. The paper used a mixed-methods approach of data collection. Incorporating primary data mainly from surveys and interviews alongside secondary data from governmental reports, official documents, and academic journals.