Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Md Sarwar said that there is no security threat surrounding Pahela Baishakh.
He made the remarks while responding to a question from journalists at a press briefing held at a temporary DMP control room in Ramna Park on Sunday.
The DMP Commissioner said that there is no threat of militant attacks centering the celebrations. He, however, added that all necessary preparations have been taken to avert any unwanted incident.
He said large crowds are expected to gather across the capital on April 14 to celebrate the Bengali New Year. To ensure that people from all walks of life can enjoy the festivities safely, DMP has taken extensive security measures. The entire metropolitan area has been divided into nine sectors and 14 sub-sectors. A large number of police personnel, both in uniform and plainclothes, will be deployed in each area. Key locations will be swept by dog squads and bomb disposal units.
Sarwar further said that 14 checkpoints will be set up in Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, and the Dhaka University area. Archways and handheld metal detectors will be used to screen visitors at all entry points. Continuous surveillance will be maintained through CCTV, video cameras, still cameras, and drones. Observation towers and rooftop positions will also be deployed with special forces.
To prevent harassment, mugging, and pickpocketing, the DMP chief said special plainclothes teams will be deployed. Additional monitoring will also be in place to control unauthorized entry of hawkers. Cyber patrols have been strengthened to prevent the spread of rumors and misinformation on social media.
bd-pratidin/GR
