Dhaka, Dec 13, (V7N) - The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced comprehensive security measures for Christmas, the largest religious festival of Christians, and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Public displays of fireworks, firecrackers, and sky lanterns will be strictly prohibited on New Year's Eve.
This decision was made at a coordination meeting on security, law and order, and traffic management for Christmas and New Year's Eve, held at the DMP Headquarters on Thursday. The meeting was chaired by DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjad Ali. During the session, Joint Commissioner (Operations) Mohammad Shahidullah presented the security plans for both events through a PowerPoint presentation.
Security Measures for Christmas
Uniformed and plainclothes police officers will be deployed in adequate numbers at all churches. Visitors will be required to enter church premises through archways, undergo metal detector checks, and submit to manual searches. Dog squads will sweep the event venues for safety, while fire service units and ambulances will be on standby. Continuous electricity supply will be ensured in church areas, and street vendors or hawkers will not be allowed near the churches. Visitors will also be prohibited from bringing any bags into church premises.
Measures for New Year’s Eve
Regular patrols and additional checkpoints will be set up across the city. Public displays of fireworks, firecrackers, and sky lanterns will remain strictly banned. Access to Dhaka University areas will be restricted to individuals with proper identification, and vehicular movement in the area will be regulated. Coordinated traffic management plans will be implemented in Gulshan and Hatirjheel areas.
The DMP will also intensify surveillance to ensure public safety. Cyber patrolling will be strengthened to counter rumors and misinformation, with social media platforms closely monitored.
Collaboration Among Agencies
The meeting was attended by representatives from various intelligence agencies, the armed forces, Dhaka University administration, Dhaka North and South City Corporations, Dhaka WASA, DPDC, the Fire Service, and other government service organizations.
DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjad Ali sought the full cooperation of city residents to ensure the peaceful observance of Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
END/SMA/AJ/
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