Vehicular movement in Dhaka Cantonment is restricted Thursday, in observance of Armed Forces Day, reports UNB.
According to a press release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the primary road from Shaheed Jahangir Gate to Staff Road will have limited access from 7:00 am to 11:00 am and 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Only vehicles carrying residents of the cantonment and invited guests will be allowed during these hours. All other vehicles are requested to avoid the area during the specified times to ensure smooth execution of the day’s events.
Honouring the Armed Forces
The day began with special prayers at mosques within army cantonments, naval bases, and air force establishments across the country, seeking blessings for national prosperity, the progress of the Armed Forces, and the departed souls of freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in the 1971 Liberation War.
President Md Sahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, in their messages, paid tributes to the Armed Forces for their contributions to the nation.
They laid wreaths at the Shikha Anirban in Dhaka Cantonment to honour the martyrs.
The Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hasan, and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan also placed wreaths on behalf of their respective forces.
Celebrations Across the Nation
A reception hosted by the Chief Adviser at the Army Multipurpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment will recognise gallantry award recipients and their families.
The event will include speeches, the distribution of commemorative gifts, and interaction between distinguished guests, including members of the judiciary, senior civil and military officials, foreign diplomats, and renowned personalities.
Later in the afternoon, a formal reception will be held at the Senakunja in Dhaka Cantonment to be broadcast live by Bangladesh Television.
Similar receptions are planned at cantonments in Barishal, Cox's Bazar, Bogura, Sylhet, Ghatail, Chattogram, Jashore, Rangpur, and Khulna under the respective area headquarters.
Specially decorated naval vessels in Dhaka, Khulna, Chandpur, Barishal, and Chattogram will remain open to the public from 2:00 pm to sunset.
Besides, the Armed Forces Day is marked by essay and art competitions at military-run educational institutions.
National newspapers have published special supplements highlighting the significance of the day.
The Armed Forces Day is celebrated with enthusiasm and reverence across Bangladesh, reflecting the nation’s pride in its military forces.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
