DMP rules out security concerns for Amar Ekushey Book Fair

Police say layered security, CCTV coverage, and traffic control will be in place throughout the fair

Police have ruled out security threats ahead of the Bangla Academy Book Fair 2026.

Speaking at Suhrawardy Udyan on Wednesday about the security plan for the fair, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Additional Commissioner Md Sarwar said the force has implemented overall security measures, as in previous years.

"We don’t see any risks around the book fair, but all precautions have been set."

He added that books deemed offensive to religious sentiments will be monitored, with specialised police units assigned to oversee such matters.

The book fair is scheduled to begin on Feb 26 and will continue until Mar 15, as per the annual tradition.

Outlining security arrangements, officer Sarwar said a police control room set up inside the fairground will conduct round-the-clock monitoring.

“Adequate numbers of officers will be deployed across the venue,” he added. “Multiple internal layers of security will be in place from the fair premises up to the gates of Suhrawardy Udyan.

“Alongside uniformed personnel, special teams in plain clothes will remain on duty.

He noted that extra precautions are being taken for weekends when the crowds typically peak, including foot patrols and a focused security presence around the Muktomoncho area.

On entry-point security, Sarwar said: “Metal detectors will be installed at the entrances alongside manual checks. No one will be allowed to enter the book fair with sharp weapons, explosives or prohibited substances.

“Around 300 CCTV cameras will monitor the venue at all times. A dog squad will sweep the fairground and surrounding areas.”

Special arrangements have been made for women and children attending the fair. Barricades will be placed at multiple entry points for security. A separate box will be available to return lost items.

Addressing the flow of traffic, the additional commissioner mentioned that heavy vehicles will not be allowed near Dhaka University and Raju Sculpture.

Unlike previous years, the road from TSC to Doel Chattar will not be closed indefinitely but will be managed based on traffic volume, he said.

“Barricades and diversions will be set up from TSC to the Mausoleum of Three Leaders to manage vehicle movement.”

For those driving to the event, Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Md Anisur Rahman said: “Parking facilities for visitors will be available at the [Haji Mohammad] Mohsin Hall field, Fuller Road, the Dhaka University central playground, and the Central Shaheed Minar premises.”