Today, Thursday, 26 February, the Dhaka University Metro Station in the capital will be temporarily closed from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm due to heightened security measures. During this period, no passengers will be permitted to enter or exit the station, and trains will not stop there. The metro authorities have officially confirmed this schedule.
The temporary closure coincides with the inauguration of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will attend the event as the chief guest at 2:00 pm. Comprehensive security and crowd management arrangements have been put in place to prevent any disorder or emergencies during the programme.
While this interruption may cause some inconvenience for regular metro users, authorities emphasise that it is a necessary precaution to ensure the safety of both passengers and visitors. Commuters are advised to adjust their travel plans in advance according to the temporary schedule.
Book Fair Participation Overview
This year, a total of 549 publishing houses are participating in the fair, slightly fewer than last year. Exhibitors are located across the Bangla Academy premises and Sohrawardi Udyan, with a total of 1,018 stalls—down from 1,084 last year.
A brief overview of stall allocation is provided below:
| Location | Number of Publishers | Number of Stalls | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangla Academy Premises | 81 | 81 | Main premises stalls |
| Sohrawardi Udyan | 468 | 937 | Includes Little Magazine Square and Children’s Corner |
| Little Magazine Square | 87 | 87 | Under the open-air stage |
| Children’s Corner | 63 | 107 | Dedicated to children and adolescents |
Key Statistics:
Total publishers: 549 (last year: 708)
Total stalls: 1,018 (last year: 1,084)
This year’s fair introduces a new layout and a diverse programme, particularly through the Little Magazine Square and the Children’s Corner, offering visitors an enriched experience. These sections will feature storytelling, poetry, educational activities, and entertainment specifically designed for children and teenagers.
Travel Advisory for Visitors
During the metro station closure, passengers can use nearby stations as alternatives. For book fair attendees, safe parking, clear entry routes, and emergency medical services have been arranged. Security measures have been particularly reinforced for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and women.
Through careful coordination between the book fair organisers and the metro authorities, a safe, orderly, and well-managed environment is assured for all visitors and commuters.