Ijtema 2nd phase: DMP issues traffic guidelines for ‘Akheri Munajat’ on 16 Feb

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a set of traffic directives ahead of the 'Akheri Munajat' of Bishwa Ijtema's second phase scheduled for 16 February.

According to a press release from the DMP headquarters, from 4am on 16 February, all vehicles except those carrying Uttara residents, air passengers, airport operational vehicles, airline crew, fire service, law enforcement, and ambulances must avoid the Airport Road (Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway). Instead, they should use alternative routes via Mohakhali-Bijoy Sarani-Mirpur-Gabtoli.  

Additionally, inter-district buses, trucks, and heavy vehicles will be restricted from using Abdullahpur and Dhour Bridge intersections and should instead travel via Mohakhali-Bijoy Sarani-Gabtoli.

For vehicles coming from the northern districts via Nabinagar, Baipail, and Ashulia, the DMP advises them to avoid Kamarpara/Abdullahpur crossings and instead travel via Savar-Gabtoli or Dhour Bridge-Mirpur Beribadh, said the release.

Vehicles arriving in Dhaka via Airport Road must either make a U-turn near Radisson Blu hotel or use the Kuril Flyover via Pragati Sarani. Similarly, those using the 300 Feet Road should avoid Kuril Flyover Loop-2 (airport-bound) and instead use Pragati Sarani and Loop-4 (Kakoli-Mohakhali bound).

The Dhaka Elevated Expressway's Kaula/airport-bound exit should also be avoided on 16 February.

Pedestrians heading to the Ijtema ground are advised to use the pontoon bridge over the Turag River or the Kamarpara Bridge to reach the venue, added the release.

To facilitate air travellers on the day of Akheri Munajat, the DMP's Traffic Uttara Division will provide free shuttle services from Padma U-loop to the airport.

For smooth parking management, drivers and helpers of vehicles carrying devotees must remain inside their vehicles at designated parking areas.

Both passengers and drivers must exchange phone numbers for immediate communication if needed. Additionally, all such vehicles must visibly display the driver's name and contact number.

Due to the damage to the Abdullahpur Bailey Bridge, all vehicles must use the Azampur Flyover instead.

To prevent accidents, the DMP has urged the public not to cross highways on foot and use footbridges instead. Moreover, parking on both sides of the road from Khilkhet to Abdullahpur and Dhour Bridge will be strictly prohibited.

The DMP's traffic division seeks the cooperation of all citizens in maintaining traffic order and avoiding congestion during the grand gathering of Bishwa Ijtema, said the release.