11 Apr 2019 | 05:59 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Pahela Baishakh (New Year) celebrations nationwide April 14
New Year celebrations April 14 nationwide; heightened security measures and localized disruptions to be expected
Event
Pahela Baishakh, or Bengali New Year, celebrations are set to take place nationwide on Sunday, April 14. Country officials have announced that heightened security measures (e.g. metal detectors at venue entries, closed-circuit cameras, security and fire service deployments) will be implemented across the country for the occasion, particularly in key areas of the capital Dhaka, including Ramna Batamul, Rabindra Sarobar, Hatirjheel, and the Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC). In addition, facemasks and instruments that cause a "nuisance," including vuvuzelas, are banned during celebrations. The government has also required that all events conclude by 18:00 (local time) on Sunday. Localized transportation and business disruptions are to be anticipated.
Advice
Individuals in Bangladesh in the coming days are advised to avoid large public gatherings as a precaution, anticipate an increased security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
