Dhaka, Jan 01 (V7N) — The night sky over Dhaka was filled with fireworks and flying sky lanterns on New Year’s Eve, defying a strict ban imposed by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) amid a nationwide state of mourning following the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

From around 11:30 pm on Wednesday, sky lanterns were seen rising across large parts of the city. As the clock struck midnight, residents welcomed the New Year with fireworks, crackers, and lanterns from rooftops, causing loud explosions that reverberated through many neighborhoods. Almost every residential building saw people gathering on rooftops to celebrate, despite official prohibitions.

In Dhaka’s Mansurabad area, a fire reportedly broke out after a sky lantern landed in a residential location. Although no casualties were immediately reported, the incident heightened concerns over fire hazards linked to such celebrations.

In Dhanmondi, fireworks burst continuously from multiple directions, lighting up the sky with sparks and producing intense noise. Drones were also seen flying overhead, while numerous lanterns floated above the area. Even at around 12:45 am, the sound of fireworks could still be heard. The loud noise startled birds, with several pigeons seen taking refuge on rooftops.

In Mohammadpur’s Bosila area, sky lanterns and fireworks were observed even before 10:00 pm. After 11:00 pm, the sky over Adabor was crowded with lanterns, followed by deafening fireworks around midnight. Similar scenes were reported across other parts of the capital.

Residents noted that birds were visibly distressed by the fireworks and burning lanterns, calling loudly and flying erratically. Stray dogs and cats were also seen running in panic through alleyways and streets.

Several residents alleged that despite the presence of law enforcement personnel, celebrations continued unchecked. They also claimed that although mobile courts were expected to operate, no effective enforcement measures were visible on the ground.

Earlier, the DMP had announced a complete ban on fireworks, crackers, sky lanterns, gas balloons, and any explosive or fire-related activities on Thirty-First Night, citing risks of fire, explosions, and threats to public safety. Following the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, the ban was further reinforced as part of a three-day state mourning period from Wednesday to Friday.

In a public notice issued on Wednesday, DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali urged city residents to cooperate in enforcing the restrictions. The notice also stated that no open-air cultural programs, DJ parties, rallies, or processions would be allowed during the mourning period. Citizens were further instructed to refrain from activities that could cause public disturbance, including the use of loud vehicle horns.

Despite these directives, widespread celebrations continued, highlighting challenges in enforcement and raising renewed questions about public compliance with safety regulations in the capital.

END/AJ/SMA/