Dhaka traffic advisory for swearing-in ceremony
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced sweeping traffic restrictions across key roads in the capital on Tuesday, 17 February, ahead of the new government’s swearing-in ceremony.
The oath-taking will be held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban and is expected to draw around 1,200 local and international guests. President Mohammed Shahabuddin will administer the oath to the new Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet.
DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Muhammad Talebur Rahman said special traffic arrangements have been put in place to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the ceremony. Traffic movement around the Parliament area will be strictly regulated, with a series of diversions designed to minimise wider disruption.
Key Restrictions and Diversions
Manik Mia Avenue and Lake Road Closed
The entire stretch of Manik Mia Avenue and Lake Road will remain off-limits to vehicles throughout the day.
Shyamoli, Mirpur Road to Farmgate
Vehicles travelling south from Mirpur Road towards Farmgate or Karwan Bazar must turn right onto Defence Ministry Road, proceed towards the China Friendship Conference Centre, then continue via Bijoy Sarani Crossing to reach Farmgate.
Dhanmondi to Farmgate
Traffic from Dhanmondi 27 heading to Farmgate will be diverted right onto Defence Ministry Road, then through the China Friendship Conference Centre and Bijoy Sarani before reaching Farmgate Crossing.
Asad Gate to Farmgate
Vehicles coming from Mohammadpur must turn left at Asad Gate, then right onto Defence Ministry Road, proceed towards the China Friendship Conference Centre and Bijoy Sarani, and continue to Farmgate.
Elevated Expressway/Indira Road to Dhanmondi
Traffic from the Elevated Expressway or Indira Road should proceed to the Khejur Bagan roundabout, turn right towards the China Friendship Conference Centre, then left onto Defence Ministry Road, left again at Asad Gate, and continue to Dhanmondi.
Gabtoli, Shyamoli via Mirpur Road to Dhanmondi
Southbound vehicles from Mirpur Road will travel directly via Shyamoli–Shishu Mela and Asad Gate towards Dhanmondi 27.
Elevated Expressway advisory
To ease congestion, drivers are advised to use the FDC (Hatirjheel) ramp instead of the Farmgate exit ramp during the ceremony.
Advisory to Commuters
The restrictions will be in force from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. The DMP has urged motorists to avoid Manik Mia Avenue and Lake Road during these hours and to follow the designated diversion routes.
Authorities have also called for the full cooperation of city residents to ensure smooth traffic flow and security during the high-profile state event.