Bangladesh: Islamic group staging religious conference at Suhrawardy Udyan monument in Dhaka the morning of Nov. 5

Members of the Islamic group Ulama Mashayekh are holding a religious conference at the Suhrawardy Udyan monument in Dhaka the morning of Nov. 5. Thousands of people are in attendance, with crowds extending to nearby areas such as Shabagh and parts of the Dhaka University campus. Reports indicate that severe traffic congestion is affecting several locations, including the exit ramp of Dhaka Elevated Expressway, Farmgate, Karwan Bazar, Mogbazar, and Shabagh. Police have closed certain roads, including Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue and VIP Road, to facilitate the event.

Authorities will likely monitor the gathering and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Minor skirmishes between police and activists are possible, especially if activists defy any security curbs. Increased traffic congestion and heightened demand for public transport are almost certain as attendees reach and leave the venue. Any road blockades will likely exacerbate traffic disruptions in the vicinity. Associated localized business disruptions are likely.