The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a public notice warning of potential traffic disruptions in parts of the capital due to multiple political and cultural events scheduled for Sunday, August 3.

In a statement signed by DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali on Saturday, August 2, authorities said areas such as Shahbagh, the Central Shaheed Minar, and Suhrawardy Udyan would see large public gatherings, making vehicular movement particularly difficult, especially at Shahbagh Crossing.

Key Events Causing Traffic Impact:

From 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal (BNP’s student wing) will organize a rally at Shahbagh intersection to mark the “first anniversary of the July–August People’s Uprising, Mourning, and Victory.”

From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the National Citizen Party (NCP) will hold a mass gathering at the Central Shaheed Minar, calling for the ratification of the “July Declaration.”

At Suhrawardy Udyan, the ongoing cultural festival “July Awakening,” hosted by the 36 July Cultural Fest, will continue from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM until August 4.

Meanwhile, the HSC and equivalent exams, as well as BCS exams, are also scheduled on the same day, further increasing traffic sensitivity.

DMP’s Suggested Alternative Routes & Diversions:

Northbound traffic from Sonargaon or Banglamotor should avoid going straight to Shahbagh. Instead, take a left turn via Hare Road or Minto Road.

 Katabon Intersection:

Vehicles approaching from the west through Science Lab should avoid Shahbagh and divert through Nilkhet/Palashi or take the left via Hatirpool Road toward Banglamotor Link Road.

Matsya Bhaban Intersection:

Traffic from High Court or Kadam Fountain should skip Shahbagh and use Hare Road or Shaheed Captain Monsur Ali Sarani (Moghbazar Road).

Kakrail to Matsya Bhaban Route:

Northbound vehicles from Kakrail Mosque should head toward Gulistan or Dhaka University instead of Shahbagh via High Court.

TSC / Raju Sculpture Area:

Traffic from Doel Chattar or Nilkhet should avoid Shahbagh and loop back through their point of origin.

Shaheed Minar & Suhrawardy Udyan Vicinity:

Public is advised to avoid roads adjacent to Shaheed Minar and the entrance points of Suhrawardy Udyan unless absolutely necessary.

Advice to Examinees:

DMP strongly urges all HSC, equivalent, and BCS candidates to start their journey to exam centers well in advance, considering the possibility of congestion and diversions.