The government has taken tight security measures across the country to ensure the peaceful and smooth celebration of Bangla New Year 1433, as well as the traditional festivals of the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Garo and other ethnic communities on April 14.
The decision was taken at a meeting on law and order situation held on Wednesday at the home ministry’s conference room at the secretariat, chaired by senior secretary Monjur Morshed Chowdhury, according to a ministry press release.
As per the decisions, all programmes nationwide, including those at Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka University, Hatirjheel and Rabindra Sarobar, must end by 6:00pm. No visitors will be allowed to enter these venues after 5:00pm.
Strict security arrangements will be in place for the ‘Baishakhi Shobhajatra’ organised by the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University. Participants will not be allowed to wear masks during the procession, although they may carry them. Masks used for display must not cover the face.
Participants must join the procession at the beginning, and no one will be allowed to enter midway once it starts. Flying lanterns, fireworks, gas balloons and blowing vuvuzelas have been banned nationwide for security reasons.
Authorities will also take measures to prevent motorcycle and car racing, particularly in the 300-foot area of the capital.
Security agencies will conduct sweeping operations with dog squads at key venues, including Ramna Batamul and Dhaka University. Watchtowers, CCTV cameras and adequate archways will be installed at important points.
Plainclothes intelligence personnel and mobile courts led by executive magistrates will be deployed nationwide to prevent stalking, mugging and pickpocketing.
Fire service units, ambulances and medical teams will be stationed at major venues, while divers will remain deployed at Ramna Lake to prevent any untoward incidents.
On Pahela Baishakh, the Dhaka University TSC metro rail station will remain closed for security reasons. No vehicles without university stickers will be allowed to enter the Dhaka University area from 7:00pm on April 13.
The public has been requested not to carry bags, backpacks, matches, or lighters while taking part in the programmes. Guardians have also been advised to keep identification details with their children.
Speaking at the meeting, Monjur Morshed Chowdhury said that the administration and law enforcement agencies would take all necessary steps to ensure the safe celebration of this major cultural festival of the Bengali people.
