Dhaka: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Javed Patwari on Tuesday ordered the police force to perform their duties professionally so that people can celebrate ‘Pahela Baishakh’ in a festive manner.

He also asked them to ensure additional security at all the ‘Pahela Baiskakh’ celebration venues, including Baishakhi Mela, sports and cultural programme, cinema halls as well as other public gatherings ahead of Pahela Baishakh, which will be celebrated across the country, including the capital Dhaka on April 14.

The IGP gave the directives while addressing a meeting on law and order and security on the occasion of the Pahela Baishakh at Police Headquarters on Tuesday.

In his address, the IGP said police have taken a widespread security measures to ensure safe and smooth celebration of the Pahela Baisakh, the Bengali new year.

He said, on the occasion of the Bangla new year, various fairs are held in the cities and villages for a long times. The flair of such programmes will have to spread among all, especially among the future generation, the IGP said and expressed hope that “We will be able to celebrate Baishakhi festival of Bangalee nation at the joint effort of all.”

The meeting decided to review the safety risks based on police and intelligence report of the venues, including Ramna Batamul, Rabindra Sarobar, Hatirjheel and other public gatherings in Dhaka city.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police will take special measures to control vehicular movement and parking. RAB helicopters will be engaged in emergency rescue operation.

Necessary security measures will be taken on the occasion at large shopping centers, markets, shops and business establishments in different parts of the country including the capital.

Special security measures will be taken in the public transports including railway stations, launches and bus terminals.

The meeting also decided to take special measures to prevent any person or group from propagating the law and order situation through Facebook and other social networks. Intelligence surveillance will be extended against banned militant organizations and saboteurs.

Additional IGP (A & M) Mokhlesur Rahman, RAB Director General Benazir Ahmed, DMP Commissioner Md. Aashaduzzaman Mia, and chiefs of different police units as well as intelligence agencies were present in the meeting.