Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali has assured that there is no security threat surrounding the big student gathering for or the Thirty-First Night celebrations, reports UNB.
In a media briefing held on Tuesday at the DMP Media Centre, he outlined the security measures planned for the Thirty-First Night and English New Year celebrations in Dhaka.
Tapan Kumar Biswas, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, was also [resent at the briefing who discussed initiatives to prevent fireworks, cluster bombs and sky lanterns during the festivities.
Enhanced Security Deployment
The DMP Commissioner announced that additional 3,000 police personnel have been deployed across the metropolitan area to ensure safety.
Explaining the arrangement, he said, "Regular police deployment includes patrol teams from every outpost and multiple teams from each station. For the Thirty-First Night, we have added 3,000 officers to our regular deployment, targeting key areas like Dhaka University, Gulshan, the 300-feet road, and Uttara Diabari."
Environment magistrates from the Department of Environment will collaborate with the police, conducting mobile courts to enforce regulations where necessary, he added.
Efforts against Noise Pollution
Tapan Kumar Biswas highlighted efforts to address excessive noise pollution during the celebrations.
"Mobile courts will be active across Dhaka and other parts of the country. They will enforce existing laws, imposing fines and other legal actions against violations," he said.
Crackdown on Illegal Fireworks
In preparation for the celebrations, the DMP conducted raids over the past week, seizing 127 kg of fireworks, including cluster bombs and rocket bombs. Five cases were filed, and five individuals were arrested in connection with the seizures.
"We urge citizens to cooperate in curbing noise pollution. It's not just the responsibility of the police or the Department of Environment; every individual must contribute," the Commissioner said.
A Controlled Celebration
Responding to questions about why Bangladesh faces unique environmental challenges compared to other countries that celebrate with fireworks, the Commissioner explained, "Globally, New Year celebrations often occur in designated areas. Here, we lack such arrangements, but we are considering organising controlled events in specific locations in Dhaka in the future."
Police Morale and Preparedness
About concerns about police morale, he reassured that the force has overcome previous setbacks. "The challenges that lowered our morale have been addressed. We are in a much better state now," he affirmed.
He reiterated that no specific threats have been identified for the celebrations, emphasizing the readiness of law enforcement to ensure public safety.
As Dhaka gears up to welcome the New Year, both the DMP and the Department of Environment have called for public cooperation to make the festivities safe and environmentally responsible.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
