DHAKA, April 9, 2026 (BSS) - The Ministry of Home Affairs has called upon the authorities concerned to conclude all the events of Pahela Baishakh by 6pm on April 14.   

According to the directives, all Pahela Baishakh celebrations across the country—including key venues such as Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka University, Hatirjheel, and Rabindra Sarobar—must conclude by 6:00pm. Entry to these programmes will be restricted after 5:00pm.

The decision was taken at a law and order meeting held on April 8 at the Bangladesh Secretariat with Senior Secretary Manzur Morshed Chowdhury in the chair.

The ministry has also announced comprehensive security measures to ensure the peaceful and incident-free celebration of Bengali New Year 1433, along with the traditional New Year festivals of indigenous communities including the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, and Garo.
Strict security measures will also be enforced during the traditional “Baishakh Shobhajatra”, organized by the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University. 

Participants will not be allowed to wear masks during the procession, although they may carry them. 

Additionally, no one will be permitted to join the procession midway once it has started.

For security purpose, flying sky lanterns, setting off fireworks, using gas balloons, and blowing vuvuzelas have been completely banned nationwide. Authorities will also take strict measures to prevent motorcycle and car racing, particularly in the 300-feet. 

Security forces will deploy dog squads for sweeping operations at key points including Ramna Batamul and Dhaka University. Watch towers, CCTV cameras, and archways will be installed at important points, while intelligence surveillance and mobile courts led by executive magistrate will be active to curb eve-teasing, snatching, and pick pocketing.

Fire service units, ambulances, and medical teams will be stationed at major venues. A diving team will also be deployed at Ramna Lake to prevent any untoward incidents.

On April 14, 2026, the Dhaka University (TSC) metro rail station will remain closed for security reasons. Additionally, from 7:00 PM on April 13, no vehicles without university stickers will be allowed to enter the Dhaka University area.

The public has been advised not to carry bags, backpacks, matches, or lighters during the celebrations. Parents are also encouraged to provide children with identification notes.

Senior Secretary of the Home Ministry Manzur Morshed Chowdhury stated that all necessary measures have been taken by law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe and festive celebration of the Bengali New Year.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and other relevant ministries, along with representatives from police, RAB, BGB, and intelligence agencies.