'Pahela Baishakh celebration must be concluded by 6 pm'

The government has directed that all events centering Pahela Baishakh including those at Ramna park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka University, Hatirjheel, and Rabindra Sarobar, must conclude by 6 pm.

The decision came from a meeting on law and order during celebration of Pahela Baishakh at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday.

According to a news of UNB, the ministry has prohibited fireworks and lanterns to ensure public safety during the upcoming Pahela Baishakh.

District administrations, district police, and event organisers will ensure security by coordinating arrangements for nationwide celebrations.

Special security measures will be taken at important locations such as Ramna Botomul, Ramna park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka University, Hatirjheel, and Rabindra Sarobar. Law enforcement forces and intelligence agencies will be vigilant during these events.

The Bangla Academy will ensure necessary security measures during the Pahela Baisakh fair.

Personal security arrangements need to be in place alongside law enforcement agencies during the celebration programmes. Volunteers and law enforcement agencies will collaborate to ensure security, said the Home Ministry.

Special security arrangements will be made for diplomatic zones and establishments.

Fire service teams, including fire trucks and ambulances, will be present at significant points in Dhaka and throughout the country during celebrations. Medical teams will also be available, it said.

Mobile courts and law enforcement units will be deployed to prevent any incidents of harassment, vandalism, pickpocketing, or other undesirable activities during the celebrations.

Playing banned instruments like vuvzela horn will be prohibited during the celebrations.

High-quality food will be served in prisons across the country during the New Year, and cultural events will be organised.

Measures will be taken to prevent drug abuse during the Bangla New Year celebrations and those who will spread disinformation on social media platforms, will face music.