The first phase of the 58th Biswa Ijtema, hailed as one of the largest global congregations of Muslims, will begin with ‘aam bayan’ (general sermon) today on the bank of Turag River in Gazipur’s Tongi.
Leaders of the Tabligh Jamaat and religious scholars set the tone for the event with speeches, highlighting different aspects of Islam on the main stage on Thursday evening.
Followers of senior cleric Muhammad Zubair from Dhaka’s Kakrail Mosque, the Tabligh Jamaat’s national headquarters, are attending the first phase of the Ijema this year. Media coordinator of the Zubair faction of the Tabligh Jamaat, Habibullah Rayhan, said the followers of Maulana Zubair from 42 districts will have their Akheri Munajat (concluding prayers) on Sunday, and those of 22 other districts will take part from Wednesday. The followers of Maulana Saad will offer their Akheri Munajat on 16 February, said Mohammad Sayem, media coordinator of the Saad faction of Tabligh Jamaat.
This is for the first time the first phase of Ijtema will be divided in two segments with two Akheri Munajats.
Thousands of volunteers, including madrasa students, are actively working to ensure a smooth experience for worshippers.
Meanwhile, security has been beefed up on the bank of the Turag River and adjacent areas, marking the event.
“The security personnel are ready to strictly suppress any attempt or propaganda by any individual or interest group to disrupt the law and order over the upcoming Ijtema,” said Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam after inspecting the security arrangements at the Ijtema ground in Tongi on Wednesday.
The ongoing patrols to prevent any chaos and terrorist activities on the waterways, and naval patrols are being conducted round-the-clock.
Watchtowers and 228 CCTV cameras have been installed, while law enforcement personnel in plainclothes will be deployed for added vigilance. Drones will also be used to monitor the area.
Besides, regular check posts are being set up at Cheragali Bus Stand, Tongi Kaliganj Road, in front of Uttara North Tower and in the Ashulia Kamarpara area to search vehicles and passengers going to the Ijtema.
Every year, along with domestic devotees, many foreign devotees arrive from different countries of the world on the occasion of Ijtema. This year is no exception in this regard.
7 pairs of special trains for Ijtema attendees
Bangladesh Railway will operate seven pairs of special trains to facilitate the smooth transportation of devotees attending the three-day Bishwa Ijtema.
In addition to the special trains, all trains, except five non-stop intercity services – Subarna Express, Sonar Bangla Express, Cox’s Bazar Express, Tourist Express, and Banalata Express – will have a two-minute stopover at Tongi station from today until the Akheri Munajat on 2 February. On Sunday, the Turag Commuter trains will remain suspended for the Akheri Munajat, and mail trains numbered 11, 12, 45, 46, 9, and 10 will also be halted for the day.
Additionally, the 75/76 Dhaleshwari Express and local trains numbered 261, 262, 263, and 268 will be suspended on 1 and 2 February.