Acting Commissioner of DMP Md Sarwar spoke to reporters at Ramna Batamul this afternoon after inspecting security arrangements. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Apr 12, 2026 (BSS) - Acting Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Md Sarwar, has announced an extensive security plan for the upcoming Pohela Boishakh celebrations on April 14, ensuring a safe and festive environment for all.

Speaking to reporters at Ramna Batamul this afternoon after inspecting security arrangements, the DMP chief said large crowds are expected to gather at key venues including Ramna Park, Shishu Park, Dhaka University, Bahadur Shah Park, Mirpur Shakyamuni Buddhist Temple, Rabindra Sarobar, and Hatirjheel to celebrate the Bengali New Year.

To maintain law and order, the capital has been divided into 9 sectors and 14 sub-sectors, with a significant deployment of uniformed and plainclothes police personnel. 

Special units including SWAT, Bomb Disposal, K-9, Mounted Police, Detective Branch (DB), and Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) will be on duty. 

Important venues will be swept by bomb disposal teams and monitored using CCTV, video cameras, and drones.

Security measures also include installation of barricades at 14 important points surrounding Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, and Dhaka University. 

Entry points to event venues will be equipped with archways and handheld metal detectors for thorough screening.

The DMP will set up observation towers, rooftop surveillance, and deploy foot patrols and pickets throughout the event areas. Plainclothes officers will work to prevent harassment, theft, and pick-pocketing. 

Temporary police control rooms and “Lost and Found” centers will also be established at major venues.

Authorities have issued strict guidelines for attendees, prohibiting the entry of people with masks, bags, sharp objects, and flammable materials. Fireworks, sky lanterns, and noise-making whistles are also banned. 

The visitors are requested to cooperate with law enforcement agencies during security checks.

The traditional Chhayanaut event at Ramna Batamul will take place from 6:15 AM to 8:25 AM, with designated entry and exit gates. 

Meanwhile, the Boshakhi Shobhajatra will begin at 9:00 AM from the Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University, and follow a fixed route under tight security coverage.

Traffic restrictions and diversions will be in effect from 5:00 AM on April 14 in and around Ramna, Suhrawardy Udyan, and Dhaka University areas. Commuters are advised to follow alternative routes as directed by traffic police.

Designated parking arrangements have been arranged in selected areas, while emergency services including fire service teams, ambulances, medical units, and divers from the naval police will remain on standby. Tourist police service centers and mobile toilets will also be available.

Citizens are urged to report any suspicious activities to the national emergency hotline 999, DMP control room numbers, or the nearest temporary police booths.

The DMP Acting Commissioner called for public cooperation to ensure that the Pahela Boishakh celebrations remain peaceful, inclusive, and joyous for everyone.