Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali has said that additional police forces and intelligence agency personnel will be deployed across the capital on the occasion of Durga Puja immersion (Bijoya Dashami) on Thursday.

He made the statement while speaking to reporters on Wednesday following a security inspection at Banani Puja Mandap in Dhaka.

In response to a question about heightened security measures, the DMP Commissioner confirmed that extra preparations have already been made at all designated immersion points.

“Additional police and intelligence officers will be on duty to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration. As of now, there are no concerns about any potential threats to public safety,” he said.

He also issued a safety advisory for city residents, urging people to exercise caution during immersion processions involving water bodies.
“Those who cannot swim should avoid getting on boats. Even those who can swim must wear life jackets to prevent accidents,” he added.

Highlighting the festive atmosphere across the city, Commissioner Sajjat Ali said, “This year, Durga Puja is being celebrated at 254 mandaps in Dhaka. Today is Navami and tomorrow is the immersion. So far, no untoward incidents have been reported.”

He noted that DMP began its preparations nearly a month in advance to ensure the festival is celebrated in a joyful and secure environment.

Meetings regarding safety and logistics were held with Ministry of Home Affairs, Police Headquarters and DMP Headquarters.

“The mandaps are filled with happy devotees. We hope the immersion will take place in the same festive spirit,” he said.
The commissioner also emphasized the importance of maintaining communal harmony in the country.

“For hundreds of years, people of all faiths; Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians, have lived together like brothers and sisters. It is our collective responsibility to preserve this harmony for future generations,” he added.
During the inspection, Additional Police Commissioner (Crime & Operations) SN Md. Nazrul Islam and other senior DMP officials were present.