GAZIPUR, Jan 29, 2024 (BSS) - The first phase of Bishwa Ijtema will begin on the
bank of the Turag River at Tongi, on the outskirts of the city, on February 2.

Confirming the matter to BSS, Ijtema Chief Coordinator Md Mahfuzur Rahman
said the followers of Maulana Zubairul Hasan Kandhlawi will join the first phase of
Bishwa Ijtema to be held from February 2 to 4.

With the participation of the supporters of Maulana Saad Kandhalvi, the second
phase of the Ijtema will be held at the same venue from February 9 to February
11.

The government has taken adequate security measures ahead of the first phase of
Biswa Ijtema.  

The Ijtema will begin with 'Aam Bayan' (general sermons) by noted Islamic
scholars after Fazr prayers on February 2 and will end with Akheri Munajat (final
prayers) on February 4.

The security management of the Ijtema Maidan will be monitored through close
circuit (CC) cameras, watch towers and rooftops while adequate number of police
personnel and intelligence agencies in plain clothes will be on duty in every Khitta
along with specialized teams, according to law enforcement sources.

Gazipur Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mahbub Alam told BSS  that a total of
7,500 law enforcers including Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), members of various
intelligence agencies wearing plain clothes and Ansars will be deployed to ensure
overall security of Biswa Ijtema.  

Air, roads, waterways and railways will be under the purview of strict surveillance
and helicopters of RAB will also patrol the surrounding areas of the Ijtema
ground.

Arrangements of metal detectors, night vision goggles, binoculars, bomb disposal
team, anti-terrorism unit, helicopter-naval patrol, Quick Response Team / Support
Unit (QRT), dog squad, forensic team, cyber patrolling and diving team will be
available to tackle any untoward situation.

Additional Director General (operation) of Railway Department Sardar Sahadat Ali
said 17 special trains will be operated for the convenience of devotees of the
Bishwa  Ijtema.  Alongside the operation of the special trains, the authorities have
scheduled for all inter-city and other trains to provide services during the Biswa
Ijtema.      

Civil surgeon of Gazipur District Hospital Dr Khairuzzaman said necessary
measures have been taken to ensure healthcare services for devotees of the
Ijtema.