Staff Reporter:
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjad Ali said on Thursday that strict security measures will be implemented to maintain law and order during the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s Eve (December 31st night) celebrations.
He made the announcement at a coordination meeting held at the DMP headquarters, where he emphasised the importance of cooperation from the public to ensure peaceful celebrations.
Christmas, the largest religious festival for Christians, will be celebrated on 25 December, followed by New Year’s Eve on 31 December, marking the end of the year.
The DMP has promised comprehensive security arrangements for both events to ensure there are no disruptions.
At the meeting, DMP Joint Police Commissioner (Operations) Mohammad Shahidullah presented a detailed security plan for the celebrations.
For Christmas, security measures will include the deployment of a sufficient number of uniformed and plainclothes police officers at each church.
Visitors will be screened through metal detectors and manual checks, while dog squads will sweep the premises. Fire service and ambulance teams will be on standby, and an uninterrupted power supply will be ensured in church areas.
To maintain order, no floating shops or hawkers will be allowed near churches, and bags will be prohibited inside church premises.
For the New Year’s Eve celebrations, the DMP plans to increase regular patrols and set up check posts across key areas. Fireworks, crackers, and lanterns will be banned in open spaces.
In addition, access to the Dhaka University area will be restricted, with only individuals carrying valid ID cards allowed entry. Traffic management measures will be implemented in areas like Gulshan, Hatirjheel, and Dhaka University to control vehicle movement.
Besides, the DMP will enhance intelligence surveillance and cyber patrolling to prevent rumors, monitor social media, and ensure overall safety during the festivities.
The meeting also included contributions from various government agencies, armed forces, Dhaka University, city corporations, and other stakeholders, all working together to ensure a safe and smooth celebration of the two festivals.
