There is no security threat surrounding this year’s Ekushey February observance in the capital, according to the commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police ( DMP).
Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali said on Friday that around 15,000 police personnel would be deployed in and around the Central Shaheed Minar to ensure the safe and orderly observance of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day.
He was speaking after inspecting security arrangements at the memorial, where large crowds are expected to gather to pay tribute to the language martyrs.
The commissioner said a multi-layered security plan had been put in place, involving police, other law enforcement agencies and volunteers, to maintain discipline and preserve the sanctity of the site.
Referring to the recently held national election, he said voters had exercised their franchise peacefully and in a disciplined manner, without security concerns.
He expressed confidence that the Ekushey February programmes would also pass off without incident.
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In addition to regular police deployment, specialised units, including SWAT, the dog squad, the bomb disposal unit and the crime scene team, will remain on standby around the clock, he said.
Intelligence surveillance and cyber monitoring have also been strengthened.
Responding to a question, Sajjat Ali said security measures were not limited to the Shaheed Minar area, adding that police remained vigilant across the capital.
He also outlined movement guidelines for visitors. Entry to the Shaheed Minar will be permitted only through the Palashi Mor–Jagannath Hall crossing route.
Visitors must exit via the Romana crossing towards Doel Chattar or Chankharpool. No alternative routes will be allowed.
Members of the public have been urged not to carry sharp objects, flammable materials or explosives, and to follow the designated entry and exit routes.
Visitors have also been requested to maintain discipline and leave promptly after paying tribute to allow others to enter.
For security and traffic management, diversions will be enforced at entry points to the Dhaka University area from Friday evening.
Teachers, students, officers and employees residing in the area have been asked to cooperate by following traffic instructions.