20 platoons of BGB deployed in capital for Pahela Baishakh security

Twenty platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed in the capital Dhaka to ensure overall security for the celebration of Bengali New Year 1433.

The information was confirmed in a press release sent by BGB on Tuesday, April 14.

The notification stated that BGB members have been deployed at important locations in the capital so that people can celebrate this traditional festival with due dignity and in a festive atmosphere. BGB members have been performing duties since the start of Pahela Baishakh in coordination with other law enforcement agencies.

BGB sources said special surveillance is being conducted at Ramna Botmool, the main focal point of the New Year celebration, and its surrounding areas. Additionally, BGB patrols and presence have been strengthened in crowded places such as Hotel Intercontinental, Kakrail, Matshya Bhaban, Engineers Institution Gate, Doel Chattar, Shahbagh National Museum, Shaheed Zia Children's Park, and Rabindra Sarobar in Dhanmondi.

BGB has taken this special security measure to ensure spontaneous participation of the public and avoid any untoward situation. The organisation has called upon all citizens to celebrate the New Year in a peaceful and safe environment.

Amidst this security clampdown, a festive atmosphere prevails across the capital. With the sunrise, Chhayanut artists at Ramna Botmool welcomed the new year with melodious music under the theme 'Chitto Jetha Bhoy Shunno, Uchho Jetha Shir' (Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high).

The entire Ramna area turned into a cultural gathering with the collective voices of hundreds of artists singing the national anthem and patriotic songs. Meanwhile, in the colourful Baishakhi procession or Mangal Shobhajatra that began from Dhaka University's Faculty of Fine Arts, motifs of roosters, violins, doves, elephants and horses received special importance as symbols of strength, creativity, peace, glory and dynamism.

From cities to villages, people have immersed themselves in celebration, shedding the decay of the old year and hoping for new light. Although much has changed with modernity, timeless traditions such as Baishakhi fairs and Halkhata remain undiminished.

Pahela Baishakh has become a unique confluence of Bengali secular consciousness, where people of all nations, religions and castes sing the song of new life together. Concerned authorities believe this additional security vigilance by BGB has brought relief to the public, making the festive atmosphere even more vibrant.