Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has rolled out an extensive, multi-tiered security plan ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, aiming to ensure a safe and orderly celebration across the capital, with particular focus on the National Eidgah.
Acting DMP Commissioner Md Sarwar announced the arrangements during a briefing at the National Eidgah Maidan on Thursday, describing the preparations as coordinated and comprehensive in response to the expected large turnout of worshippers.
The main Eid congregation is scheduled to take place at the National Eidgah at 8:30 am, where authorities estimate around 35,000 people may gather. In the event of adverse weather, the prayers will be relocated to Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at 9:00 am. The mosque will also host multiple congregations beginning from 7:00 am.
Across Dhaka, a total of 1,771 Eid congregations are set to be held at various venues, including 121 Eidgahs and 1,599 mosques. Separate arrangements have also been made for advance congregations aligned with Saudi Arabia, as well as for the Shia community.
Law enforcement agencies have established several layers of security around the National Eidgah. Entry points will be fitted with archways and metal detectors, while a network of CCTV cameras will be monitored from a central control room. Key surrounding roads, including Matsya Bhaban, Press Club, and Shiksha Bhaban areas, will feature barricades and security checkpoints.
Specialised units, including the Special Branch (SB), Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) Dog Squad, and the Bomb Disposal Unit, have been deployed to conduct sweeps and maintain vigilance. Uniformed and plainclothes personnel, along with SWAT and Detective Branch (DB) officers, will be stationed throughout the area, supported by watchtowers for real-time observation.
Authorities have also introduced separate entry gates and dedicated security measures for women to facilitate safe and convenient access. Emergency response capabilities will be reinforced with fire service teams and medical units on standby during the prayers.
Similar security protocols will be enforced at Baitul Mukarram Mosque and other Eidgahs across the city, as part of a broader effort to maintain public safety during the festival.
To manage increased traffic, temporary diversions will be implemented at key intersections, including Zero Point, High Court Crossing, Press Club Link Road, and Matsya Bhaban. Designated parking zones have been arranged near the Public Works Building, Institution of Engineers Bangladesh (IEB), Doel Chattar, and adjacent areas.
Police have urged worshippers to cooperate with the security measures and advised against carrying bags, sharp objects, or flammable items to prayer venues. Members of the public have also been encouraged to report any suspicious activity to nearby officers or through the national emergency helpline.
Senior DMP officials and media representatives attended the briefing, as authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure Eid celebration across Dhaka.
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