Tight security for Pahela Baishakh

Tightened security measures have been taken to ensure smooth celebration of Pahela Baishakh, said Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Md Asaduzzaman Mia yesterday.

“Major places will be under security blanket,” he added. The DMP commissioner was briefing the media about security preparation at DMP media centre.

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He said no one will be allowed to wear mask or use vuvuzela on the day to avert any unpleasant incident. “Law enforcers will escort the Mangal Shobhajatra. Police will keep surveillance from building rooftops,” he said.

Law enforcers will put barricades in Nilkhet, Palashi, Shahbagh, Kakrail and Matsya Bhaban areas and vehicles will not be allowed to enter, he added. CCTV cameras will be installed at several places.

To enter celebration venues, people have to go through archways and inspection. DMP banned carrying explosive materials, sharp weapons, bags and metal equipment at the venues.

Events have to end by 6pm while entry to Ramna Park and Suhrawardy Udyan will be closed after 5pm, said the DMP Commissioner.

Replying to a question on the possibility of any security threat, he said, “There is no threat of attack. Law enforcers have taken necessary measures to take action instantly.”

Plainclothes police, detectives, intelligence team, SWAT and bomb disposal units will remain standby alongside police, he added.