DMP tightens security for Janmashtami procession
Dhaka Metropolitan Police has issued traffic and security guidelines ahead of Friday’s Janmashtami procession, restricting roadside parking and imposing safety measures along its route from Dhakeshwari Temple to Bahadur Shah Park.
The colourful procession marking the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, known as Janmashtami, will begin at 3:00pm from the Sri Sri Dhakeshwari National Temple and is expected to continue until around 7:00pm, according to the DMP.
The procession will pass through Palashi Bazar, Jagannath Hall, Central Shaheed Minar, Doel Chattar, High Court, Bangabazar, Dhaka South City Corporation building, Golap Shah Mazar, Gulistan intersection, Nawabpur Road and Raysahib Bazar intersection before reaching Bahadur Shah Park.
The guidelines were issued in a public notice signed by DMP Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed.
The DMP has requested commuters not to park vehicles along the procession route during the event.
City residents have also been asked to avoid unnecessary gatherings or standing on roads that could obstruct the procession.
Devotees intending to join the procession have been advised to assemble at the starting point. No one will be allowed to join the procession midway, the DMP said.
For security reasons, participants will not be allowed to carry handbags, trolleys, large vanity bags, bundles, flammable materials, knives, weapons, scissors, corrosive liquids, matches, gas lighters or other potentially hazardous items.
The DMP has also asked participants not to throw fruits or other objects onto the procession route.
It urged devotees to refrain from using loud public-address systems or sound equipment during the procession.
Residents have been requested to immediately inform nearby police if they notice any suspicious person or object.
Participants have also been instructed to follow the directions of volunteers and law-enforcement personnel and cooperate with police deployed at barricades, pickets and archways.
The DMP has requested commuters to use alternative roads designated by police while the procession is underway.
The traffic restrictions are intended to facilitate the procession and minimise disruption along the busy roads it will traverse.
