DMP strengthens security for Amar Ekushey book fair

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali announced that strict security measures have been implemented at Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan to ensure a peaceful Amar Ekushey Book Fair, set to begin on Saturday.

"We have taken stringent security measures, as in previous years, to ensure the fair is held smoothly," he said during a press briefing after inspecting the venue.

The DMP has also reinforced security in and around Dhaka University and its surrounding areas to maintain order. A significant number of police personnel have been deployed at the fairgrounds and nearby locations. 

A control room has been set up for round-the-clock monitoring, with senior officers, particularly the deputy commissioner of Ramna Division, supervising overall security. In addition to the police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and intelligence agencies will also be involved in enforcing security.

"The entire venue is under CCTV surveillance, and adequate lighting has been arranged to prevent any untoward incidents," the commissioner added.

To facilitate smooth movement, heavy vehicles will be restricted in the Dhaka University area throughout February. The road from Doyel Chattar to TSC will be regulated based on visitor flow.

Special facilities, including lost-and-found centers and book-feeding stations, have been set up to assist visitors. Police will provide support in case of lost items or missing children.

The commissioner also directed authorities to prevent unauthorized food vendors from overcharging visitors and causing disruptions. Additionally, the DMP traffic department has been instructed to implement measures to ease traffic congestion during the fair.