DMP pledges safe, orderly Amar Ekushey Book Fair

Police on Wednesday said there is no threat of mob violence at this year’s Amar Ekushey Book Fair, assuring visitors that comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a safe and orderly environment.

Speaking at a press briefing at Suhrawardy Udyan, Additional Commissioner (Admin) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Md Sarwar said law enforcement agencies were fully prepared to prevent any untoward incidents.

“There is no apprehension of mob violence at the fair. However, police preparedness is in place,” he said.

The book fair, organised by Bangla Academy, is scheduled to begin on Thursday at Suhrawardy Udyan and adjoining areas of Dhaka University campus.

Responding to concerns about the display of religion-defaming or provocative publications, Sarwar said intelligence agencies would maintain strict surveillance to prevent such books from entering the fairgrounds.

He said DMP has adopted a multi-layered security plan covering the Bangla Academy premises and surrounding areas. Uniformed police, along with plainclothes officers, have been deployed across the venue.

A dedicated police control room has been set up inside the fair to monitor security round the clock. Around 300 CCTV cameras have been installed in and around the premises for constant surveillance.

All entry gates are equipped with archways and metal detectors, while dog squads are conducting regular sweeping operations. Specialised units including SWAT, the Bomb Disposal Unit, the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit, and the Detective Branch (DB) of police will remain on standby throughout the event. Additional measures will be enforced during weekends when larger crowds are expected.

Police have also introduced special safety arrangements for women and children. Facilities at the fair include a lost-and-found centre, breastfeeding corners, childcare services, primary medical care and ambulance support.

On traffic management, Sarwar said diversion plans have been implemented in the Dhaka University area to ease congestion. Heavy vehicles will not be allowed to enter the zone, and traffic movement from TSC to Doel Chattar may be temporarily adjusted depending on crowd pressure.

Visitors have been advised to avoid waiting for transport directly in front of the fair gates and to refrain from parking in unauthorised spots.

Meanwhile, Bangla Academy said this year’s fair will feature the highest number of participating publishers despite various challenges. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is scheduled to inaugurate the event at 2pm on Thursday.