07 Jan 2020 | 03:08 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Bishwa Ijtema Festival near Dhaka January 10-12 and 17-19
The annual Bishwa Ijtema gathering of Muslim devotees in Tongi along the River Turag (near Dhaka) will take place January 10-12 and 17-19; heightened security presence and significant transportation disruptions expected
Event
The Bishwa Ijtema (World Muslims' Congregation), the second largest gathering of Muslims after the Hajj, will be held from Friday, January 10, to Sunday, January 12, and from Friday, January 17, to Sunday, January 19, near Dhaka. It will take place by the banks of the River Turag in Tongi, approximately 3 km (2 mi) north of Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC). Crowded conditions, particularly at Dhaka's airport, are expected during the festival. Additional security personnel have also been deployed around Tongi.
A heightened security presence and severe transportation disruptions, including road closures and traffic congestion, are to be expected in the area.
Context
One of the largest peaceful gatherings in the world, the Bishwa Ijtema is an annual gathering of Muslims in Tongi. The gathering is spread over three days during which attending devotees perform prayers while listening to scholars reciting and explaining verses from the Quran.
Advice
Individuals in Dhaka and across Bangladesh are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate crowded conditions, a heightened security presence and significant transportation disruptions, budget additional time for travel, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.
Individuals traveling to DAC are advised to have their airline tickets in possession and be prepared to present them to authorities at police checkpoints.
