The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has put in place a comprehensive, multi-layered security arrangement to ensure the peaceful observance of Eid-ul-Fitr at the capital’s main Eid congregation at the National Eidgah.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday morning on the Eidgah premises, Acting DMP Commissioner Md Sarwar said the main Eid congregation will be held at 8:30am, with capacity for around 35,000 worshippers.
He added that five congregations will be held at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, the first beginning at 7am. In case of inclement weather, the main Eidgah congregation will be shifted to Baitul Mukarram at 9am.
Across the capital, authorities expect a total of 1,771 Eid congregations to be held at 121 Eidgahs and 1,599 mosques. Separate congregations will also be organised in line with Saudi Arabia’s schedule, alongside arrangements for the Shia community.
DMP official said a coordinated security framework has been developed covering all major congregation venues, with the National Eidgah receiving the highest level of attention.
Multiple security perimeters will be established around the Eidgah. Worshippers will be required to pass through archways and metal detectors at designated entry points. The entire ground and surrounding areas will be monitored through CCTV cameras, with live surveillance from a central control room.
Barricades and screening arrangements will be set up at key entry points, including Matsya Bhaban, Press Club, and Shikkha Bhaban areas. Separate entry points and security arrangements will be arranged for women.
Specialised units, including bomb disposal teams, SWAT, detective personnel in plainclothes, and counter-terrorism officials will be deployed. Dog squads will conduct sweeping operations before the event, while watchtowers will be installed for real-time monitoring.
Law enforcement agencies will work in coordination with intelligence services, fire service units, and emergency medical teams to respond to any situation.
To ease congestion, traffic diversions will be enforced at several important points, including Zero Point, High Court intersection, Press Club Link Road, and Matsya Bhaban crossing.
Authorities have designated specific parking areas for attendees, including spaces near government offices, the Institution of Engineers Bangladesh, Zero Point, UBL Crossing, Doel Chattar, and adjacent roads.
Police have urged worshippers to cooperate with security checks and refrain from bringing bags, sharp objects, or flammable materials to the venue.
They also advised attendees to exit the grounds in an orderly manner after prayers and report any suspicious activity to on-duty police members.In emergencies, citizens are encouraged to call the national helpline 999 or contact DMP through its dedicated communication channels.
Senior officials from various DMP divisions, including crime, counter-terrorism, detective branch, and traffic, were present at the briefing, along with representatives from electronic and print media.
