The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner, Sheikh Md. Sajjad Ali, has announced heightened security measures at the Central Shaheed Minar ahead of International Mother Language Day on Friday. Speaking at a briefing on Thursday in Dhaka, he stated that barricades will be set up at seven key points across the capital, beginning between 8 PM and 9 PM tonight.

The commissioner outlined that floral tributes will be organized in three phases, starting from 12:01 AM to 12:40 AM for VVIPs and VIPs, urging the general public to avoid visiting during this period to minimize inconvenience. After 12:40 AM, Dhaka University’s Palashi Gate will be opened for public access.

Visitors are requested to maintain discipline while offering tributes and arrive only during the specified times. The area will remain under strict police surveillance until 2 PM on February 21. Sajjad Ali also emphasized the need for individuals to secure personal belongings such as mobile phones and wallets, with mobile police teams stationed within a one-kilometer radius.

Additionally, the DMP has issued specific routes for public access to the Central Shaheed Minar for paying respects. According to a press release signed by Deputy Commissioner of Media and Public Relations, Muhammad Talebur Rahman, visitors are urged to follow designated routes: entering via the Palashi Crossing, Sculpture Crossing, and Jagannath Hall Crossing, and exiting through Romna Crossing and Doel Chattar. Diversions will be in place at key intersections, including Shahbagh, Nilkhet, Shahidullah Hall, Chankharpul, Palashi, and Bakshibazar.