The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has coordinated a comprehensive security and traffic management plan for the upcoming Amar Ekushey Book Fair, scheduled to commence on 26 February and continue until 15 March at the Bangla Academy premises and Suhrawardy Udyan.
Speaking at a press conference held at Suhrawardy Udyan on Wednesday morning, DMP Additional Commissioner (Admin) Md Sarwar announced that security operations will be monitored 24 hours a day this year from a dedicated police control room established at the fairground.
Senior officials will be present on-site during the night to oversee duties, while special teams of both uniformed and plainclothes police will be deployed. Additional security measures have been planned for weekends to manage the anticipated increase in crowds.
To ensure safety, visitors must pass through metal detectors and archways at all entry points, followed by manual checking.
The possession of sharp objects, explosives, or flammable substances is strictly prohibited.
The entire fairground and its surrounding areas will be under constant surveillance via 300 CCTV cameras, and regular sweeping operations will be conducted by dog squads.
Specialised units, including the Detective Branch (DB), Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit, the Bomb Disposal Unit, and SWAT, will remain on standby to address any emergencies.
Dedicated teams will also work to prevent the activities of hawkers, muggers, and pickpockets, with separate arrangements made to ensure the safety of women and children.
Public facilities at the fair will include a Lost and Found Centre, breastfeeding corners, helpdesks, and child care centres.
For safety and health emergencies, fire tenders, ambulances, and first-aid services will be stationed on-site.
Adequate searchlights have been installed for nighttime security, and pure drinking water will be available for visitors.
Regarding traffic management, the DMP Additional Commissioner (Traffic) confirmed that traffic diversions will be in effect around the TSC, Doel Chattar, and Hakim Chattar areas.
Designated parking zones include Suhrawardy Udyan, Mohsin Hall field, the Central Shaheed Minar premises, Fuller Road, and the Gymnasium field.
Throughout the duration of the fair, the entry of heavy vehicles into the Dhaka University area will be restricted during both day and night.
