In view of the extensive public gatherings and cultural festivities associated with Pohela Boishakh, authorities have announced temporary operational adjustments to two key metro rail stations in the capital. The measures have been introduced to ensure public safety, effective crowd management, and the smooth conduct of celebratory programmes in and around the Shahbagh and Dhaka University areas.
The Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), which operates the metro rail service, confirmed through an official notice issued on Monday that the changes will come into effect on Tuesday, 14 April. According to the directive signed by Deputy Project Director (Public Relations) Md Ahsan Ullah Sharifi, Shahbagh Metro Station will remain closed until 12 noon, while the Dhaka University Metro Station will remain closed for the entire day.
The decision has been taken primarily due to the expected influx of hundreds of thousands of people in the area, as the Dhaka University campus and its surrounding neighbourhood traditionally serve as the focal point of Pohela Boishakh celebrations. Events such as the renowned Mangal Shobhajatra procession, cultural performances, and gatherings organised by various institutions significantly increase pedestrian movement and place considerable pressure on transport infrastructure.
Officials noted that maintaining normal operations at these stations during peak festivities could pose challenges in terms of passenger safety, platform congestion, and overall traffic coordination. Consequently, the temporary suspension of services at these points is intended to reduce risk and facilitate smoother management of crowd flow.
Passengers have been advised to use alternative nearby stations during the affected periods. The authorities also emphasised the importance of advance travel planning to minimise inconvenience, particularly for commuters who rely on the metro system for daily movement through central Dhaka.
Enhanced security arrangements will also be in place across the metro network and surrounding areas. Additional personnel will be deployed at key locations, while coordination with law enforcement agencies has been strengthened to ensure continuous monitoring. Surveillance systems and on-ground patrols will be intensified in anticipation of the increased public activity.
The following table summarises the temporary service adjustments:
| Station Name | Duration of Closure | Reason for Closure | Alternative Arrangements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shahbagh Metro Station | Until 12:00 noon | Pohela Boishakh crowd control and safety | Use nearby metro stations |
| Dhaka University Station | Full day | Mangal Shobhajatra and cultural celebrations | Use adjacent metro stations |
City authorities have also indicated that broader security measures will be implemented across Dhaka during the festival period. These include the installation of temporary checkpoints at key intersections, increased police patrols, and expanded CCTV surveillance coverage in major public gathering zones.
Officials believe that these coordinated arrangements will contribute to a safer and more organised celebration of Pohela Boishakh, allowing citizens to participate in the festivities while ensuring that public order and transport efficiency are maintained throughout the day.