Dec 31 celebrations: Police call for designated celebration zones in future
Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali has announced stricter measures against the use of fireworks and explosives during New Year’s Eve celebrations in an effort to curb noise pollution and ensure public safety.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday afternoon at the DMP Media Centre on Minto Road, Ali highlighted the challenges posed by unregulated festivities in the capital.
He emphasised the need for a designated celebration zone to prevent unauthorised gatherings across the city.
“Dec 31 is celebrated in different countries of the world. In most countries, it is New Year’s Eve, but that isn’t the case in our country,” said Ali.
“In other countries, the English New Year celebration is organised in specific places. Fireworks are not set off throughout the city. We also thought of organising the Dec 31 and English New Year celebrations at a specific place in the Dhaka Metropolitan Area this year, but we could not do it. We will try it again next year.”
Fireworks, firecrackers, and rockets were among the 172 kg of explosives recovered in raids from various places in Dhaka over the past week ahead of New Year’s Eve, he said.
The DMP commissioner said that as many as five cases have been filed and at least five people have been arrested in connection with the operation.
From past experience a variety of fireworks and lanterns are used at 12:01am on Jan 1 every year, he said.
“There is a possibility of a similar incident tonight. I request the people of Dhaka to refrain from such activities.”
Describing this day as “significant” for various reasons, he said: “Traffic is a problem for the people of Dhaka. There are various activities scheduled today, which is why the DMP will have extensive traffic and security arrangements.”
However, stating that there was no “threat” on the occasion, the DMP Commissioner reminded citizens of some of their responsibilities in protecting the environment.
He said, “It is not possible to stop noise pollution with just the police or the Department of Environment. Every citizen bears some responsibility. We want everyone’s cooperation.”