Dhaka rings in New Year with fireworks in defiance of police ban

Defying a ban imposed by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), city dwellers welcomed the New Year by setting off firecrackers and fireworks across the capital.

As the clock struck 12:00 am, residents burst fireworks and firecrackers to usher in 2026.

Every year, police impose restrictions on the use of firecrackers and fireworks during Thirty-First Night celebrations. However, the context was different this time. Following the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has been observing official mourning since Wednesday. During the mourning period, the DMP imposed a ban on all kinds of fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns and gas balloons within the Dhaka metropolitan area.

Despite the restrictions, people celebrated the Christian New Year as usual, violating the police ban.

Correspondents of Jago News reported from different parts of the capital that the sky over Dhaka lit up with colourful fireworks, accompanied by the sound of firecrackers, although the number of sky lanterns was comparatively lower this year.

In many areas of Dhaka, firecrackers began going off from 11:00 pm, causing annoyance to many residents. The loud noise posed significant health risks, particularly for young children and the elderly.

According to a public notice signed by DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali, all types of fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns and gas balloons were prohibited in the Dhaka metropolitan area during the mourning period. The notice also stated that no cultural programmes, DJ parties, rallies or processions could be organised in open spaces.

In addition, the DMP instructed people to refrain from honking vehicle horns loudly or engaging in any activities that could create public nuisance.