Preparations for the observance of the Great Independence Day and National Day have been completed at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, Dhaka. Tomorrow, Thursday, the President, Prime Minister, opposition leaders, and other senior officials are expected to pay tribute with floral wreaths. Thousands of citizens will also visit the site to solemnly remember the sacrifices of the brave martyrs who laid down their lives during the 1971 Liberation War.
Authorities have announced that a three-tier security arrangement has been implemented at the memorial to ensure the safety of all visitors. CCTV cameras have been installed at key locations across the complex. In line with government directives, no banners, posters, festoons, or decorative arches have been erected along the route from Gabtoli, Dhaka, to the memorial.
The Public Works Department of Savar oversaw the final preparations. To facilitate renovation and development work, entry to the memorial grounds was restricted from 14–25 March. Journalists, however, were permitted access until 23 March.
During a visit on Monday, the memorial grounds were observed to be abuzz with activity. Workers tended to newly planted flowers and shrubs, watered and cleaned the lawns, and pruned the grass for aesthetic appeal. Electricians inspected and tested streetlights and CCTV cameras at strategic points. Steps adjacent to the podium were repainted, and iron lamp posts were refurbished. The lake within the memorial complex was cleaned, and various areas received maintenance and landscaping.
Abdul Matin, one of the workers tending the flowers, said, “We have planted new flower beds for Independence Day. The President, Prime Minister, and visitors from abroad will attend. We are working hard to ensure everything looks perfect.” Meanwhile, Abul Kalam, involved in road repairs, remarked, “Working here brings us great pride.”
Anwar Khan, Assistant Engineer and Officer-in-Charge of the memorial, confirmed that all preparations, including cleaning, painting, landscaping, and CCTV installation, have been completed.
Key Preparations and Security Measures:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Security Levels | Three-tier security arrangement |
| CCTV Coverage | Installed at strategic locations |
| Public Access | Restricted 14–25 March; media until 23 March |
| Road Decorations | No banners, posters, festoons, or arches along Gabtoli–Savar route |
| Grounds Maintenance | Flower planting, lawn trimming, lake cleaning, repainting of steps and lamp posts |
| Traffic Management | Sufficient traffic police deployed along Dhaka–Aricha Highway |
In a briefing on 13 March, the Department of Information requested that no decorative installations be placed along the route to maintain safety and order. Observations on Wednesday confirmed the absence of banners and festoons along the Dhaka–Aricha Highway. Road maintenance, including painting dividers and clearing dust and debris, was ongoing in areas such as Bishmail and the Savar bus stand.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police Superintendent Mizanur Rahman emphasised that the three-tier security system ensures safe and orderly tribute for both dignitaries and the public. He added that despite the high-profile presence, traffic along the Dhaka–Aricha Highway will remain normal, with sufficient traffic police deployed to maintain order.
The meticulous preparations and stringent security measures aim to ensure that all visitors can participate in the commemorations safely, solemnly, and with dignity, reflecting the nation’s respect for its martyrs.