Dhaka: Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan on Thursday urged motorcyclists not to carry any pillion passenger in the city on Pahela Baishakh on Friday for security reasons.

While talking to reporters after visiting security arrangements at Ramna Park on the eve of Pahela Baishakh celebrations, he also urged the city dwellers to park their private cars at designated points to avoid traffic gridlock and not to carry any handbag.

"Don't venture outside carrying handbags on Friday as you'll face random frisking anytime anywhere," the minister said, adding that drivers must stay in their parked vehicles as part of the security measures.
 Replying to a question, he said adequate members of law enforcement agencies will be deployed throughout the country so that people can celebrate Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bangla New Year, in a festive mood and with enthusiasm, the minister said.

Asked whether there is any threat following the execution of Huji chief Mufti Abdul Hannan and his two aides, Asaduzzaman replied in the negative, saying, "There's no threat."

The Huji chief and his two aides were hanged on Wednesday night over the grenade attack on ex-British High Commissioner Anwar Choudhury in Sylhet in 2004.

Mentioning that security has been beefed up across the country for Pahela Baishakh, the Home boss hoped nothing untoward will happen during the celebrations.