No chance of militant attack at Ramna Batamul: Minister

State Minister for Home Asaduzzaman Khan today ruled out the possibility of any militant attack at Ramna Batamul in the capital during the celebration of Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bangla New Year.

“There is no chance of any militant attack. All kinds of measures have been taken to ensure that the 2001 attack at Ramna Batamul is not repeated,” he said told reporters after inspecting the security measures at Ramna Batamul.

Ten people were killed and many others injured in a powerful bomb blast during the Pahela Baishakh celebration at Ramna Batamul on April 14, 2001.

“We’ve suppressed the rising militancy with strong hands… there is no risk at all,” said Asaduzzaman.

He said the area has been thoroughly inspected by dog squads and also the bomb detection and disposal units.

All necessary measures have been taken to ensure that the city dwellers could celebrate the Pahela Baishakh in full delight, he added.

Earlier, the state minister was briefed by the Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) personnel at the Rab control room on the spot.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police and Rab have arranged separate control rooms at the Ramna Park.

Besides, Rab’s helicopter will also remain standby for emergency rescue operation.

Special control rooms have been set up at the police headquarters and at all metropolitan police ranges to coordinate the security arrangements.

Rab will set up 32 check-posts and four rooftop observation posts at Ramna Batamul on the day of Pahela Baishakh to ensure foolproof security.

Rab sources said around 8,000 members of the elite force will be deployed across the country to ensure peaceful celebration of the first day of Bangla New Year.

Besides, divers from Bangladesh Navy will remain standby near the lake at the Ramna Park in case any one falls into the water.

Hawkers or makeshift food shops will not be allowed at the park during the celebration, said police sources.