Fireworks, open-air events banned on New Year’s Eve in Dhaka

Police have banned fireworks, crackers, and open-space events on the night of Dec 31, marking the final day of the Gregorian calendar.

The government has declared three days of state mourning following the death of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, along with a one-day general holiday on Wednesday, the day of her funeral.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced a series of restrictions, outlined in a public notice signed by Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali on Tuesday under Sections 28 and 29 of the DMP Ordinance.

The notification said that during the mourning period, all kinds of fireworks, firecrackers, lanterns, and gas balloons will be prohibited in Dhaka city.

At the same time, no cultural programmes, DJ parties, rallies, or processions can be organised in open places.

Instructions have also been issued to refrain from loud horn honking or any activities that cause public nuisance.

Under Section 28 of the DMP Ordinance, the police commissioner can impose various restrictions for public order and security, such as controlling the entry or movement of the public in specific areas, prohibiting any work or behaviour.

Section 29 says the police commissioner can ban any gathering or procession by issuing a written order “in the interest of maintaining public order or security”.

Khaleda, who was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka for 40 days, was declared dead by doctors at 6am on Tuesday.