Fireworks, firecrackers mark New Year in Dhaka despite restrictions for state mourning
A three-day state mourning is underway following the death of former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia
Fireworks and firecrackers marked the arrival of the New Year in Dhaka on the night of 31 December, despite restrictions imposed by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) during a period of state mourning.
As in previous years, the DMP had banned the bursting of fireworks, firecrackers and the flying of lanterns in the capital around English New Year and 31 night. This year, the ban carried added significance as a three-day state mourning is underway following the death of former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.
During the mourning period, all forms of fireworks, firecrackers, lanterns and gas balloons were prohibited. However, the restrictions appeared to be widely ignored, with fireworks lighting up the sky and firecrackers going off in many neighbourhoods across the capital.
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Firecrackers began bursting in several areas well before midnight, intensifying around 12am. Loud bursts and celebratory shouts were heard across residential areas, continuing until around 12:30am.
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Compared to previous years, however, the number of flying lanterns appeared to be relatively low, with only a few seen in the night sky.
The government has announced that the three-day state mourning will be observed nationwide from Wednesday (31 December) through Friday (1–2 January).
