The Ministry of Home Affairs has taken comprehensive security measures across the country to ensure the peaceful and safe celebration of Bangla New Year 1433, as well as the traditional New Year festivals of ethnic communities including the Chakma, Marma, Tripura and Garo, reports Daily Sun.
The decisions were taken at a law and order meeting held at the conference room of the home ministry at the Bangladesh Secretariat on 8 April, chaired by Senior Secretary Monjur Morshed Chowdhury, said a press release.
According to the decisions taken at the meeting, all New Year celebrations at venues including Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka University, Hatirjheel and Rabindra Sarobar must end by 6:00pm. No new visitors will be allowed to enter these venues after 5:00pm.
Strict security arrangements will also be in place for the traditional “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 by hand. Masks made for display must not be worn in a way that covers the face. Participants must join the procession at the starting point, and no one will be allowed to enter after it begins.
For security reasons, flying sky lanterns, setting off fireworks, using gas balloons and blowing vuvuzelas have been completely banned nationwide. Authorities will also take strict action to prevent motorcycle or car racing in designated areas.
Security sweeps using dog squads will be conducted at important locations including Ramna Batamul and Dhaka University. Watch towers, CCTV cameras and archway checkpoints will be installed at key points. Plainclothes intelligence personnel will remain deployed to prevent harassment, snatching and pickpocketing, while mobile courts led by executive magistrates will also operate.
Fire service units, ambulances and medical teams will be deployed at major venues. Divers will also be stationed at Ramna Lake to prevent any untoward incidents.
Authorities have requested the closure of the Dhaka University TSC metro rail station on 14 April 2026, as part of security arrangements. From 7:00pm on 13 April, no vehicles without university stickers will be allowed to enter the Dhaka University area.
Members of the public have been advised not to carry bags, backpacks, matches or lighters to event venues. Parents have also been advised to keep identification notes with children to avoid any inconvenience.
Senior Secretary Monjur Morshed Chowdhury said the administration and law enforcement agencies will take all necessary steps to ensure the safe celebration of this important cultural festival.
Senior officials from the home ministry and other relevant ministries, along with representatives from law enforcement agencies including police, RAB, BGB and intelligence agencies, were present at the meeting.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
