With a view to warding off any untoward incidents, extensive security measures have been taken in different parts of the capital city around Tazia processions and other progreammes marking the holy Ashura tomorrow.
Apart from taking adequate security measures, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has also banned the carrying of sharp weapons and the use of firecrackers during Tajia processions marking Ashura, citing public safety concerns.
The largest Tazia procession on the occasion of the holy Ashura will be brought out at 10:00 am tomorrow, it will reach the Dhanmondi Lake Karbala via Hussaini Dalan Gate No. 1, Bakshi Bazar Lane, Lalbagh Chowrasta Mor, Shaheed Mazar Road, Etimkhana Mor, Azimpur Chowrasta, Nilkhet Mor, Mirpur Road, Dhaka College, Science Laboratory, Dhanmondi Residential Area, BGB Gate No. 4, Sat Masjid Road.
The entire area has already been brought under stringent security measures with the employment of law enforcers in large numbers and brought them under CCTV coverage.
In addition, specialized units of the DMP will be ready to deal with any situation.
According to the notice, items such as knives, daggers, swords, spears, iron rods, and flammable materials are strictly prohibited as they pose risks to public safety.
The DMP noted that such items, often seen in previous processions, have caused injuries and spread panic among the public.
Adequate volunteers have been deployed to maintain law and order during the procession.
The police will be responsible for maintaining overall law and order and controlling traffic management, he said.
The security measures include the installation of adequate CCTV cameras and the deployment of law enforcement agencies, including police, DB, SWAT, bomb disposal team and traffic police. A section of the DB will be in plainclothes to monitor the situation on the occasion.
A coordination meeting of the DMP was held on security, law and order and traffic management in Dhaka Metropolitan area with the aim of celebrating the upcoming Holy Ashura and Tazia/Mourning Procession programs amidst solemnity and religious manners at its office on Thursday.
After coming out of the meeting, Additional Police Commissioner (Traffic) and DMP Acting Commissioner Md. Sarwar said, "We have taken all-inclusive security arrangements for peaceful celebrations of various programmes marking the Holy Ashura,"
Sarwar said that adequate security arrangements have already been made at the Hussaini Dalan Imambara, Bora Katra, Mohammadpur Bihari Camp, Shia Mosque, Bibika Rowza, Mirpur Pallabi Bihari Camp and other places where the holy Ashura will be celebrated with religious solemnity.
The DMP has requested all to use alternative routes to avoid traffic jams during the Tazia procession.
