With solemn pride, Bangladesh celebrates 56th Independence Day today
Access will be limited to vehicles carrying authorised guests, with DMP traffic arrangements rerouting general traffic from major surrounding roads, including Begum Rokeya Sarani, Syed Mahbub Morshed Road, and the road adjacent to the Prime Minister’s Office
Bangladesh marks its 56th Independence and National Day as citizens, officials, and foreign dignitaries come together to honour the nation's hard-won freedom. The day's programme has been meticulously organised, blending ceremonial grandeur with public safety.
The celebrations will commence at National Parade Square with a ceremonial parade from 10am to 12:30pm, showcasing the discipline and valour of the armed forces and uniformed services, paying tribute to the sacrifices of the nation's freedom fighters.
Access will be limited to vehicles carrying authorised guests, with Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) traffic arrangements rerouting general traffic from major surrounding roads, including Begum Rokeya Sarani, Syed Mahbub Morshed Road, and the road adjacent to the Prime Minister's Office.
In the afternoon, a courtesy meeting at Bangabhaban between the President, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, cabinet members, foreign diplomats, and senior officials is scheduled from 4pm to 5:30pm. Roads around Bangabhaban – including Abrar Fahad Avenue, DIT Road, Fazle Rabbi Road, and Dilkusha Road – will be temporarily closed, with alternate routes designated for commuters.
President Mohammad Shahabuddin emphasised the enduring objectives of independence: political and economic freedom, a society free from exploitation, and the empowerment and dignity of all citizens.
He urged the nation to "strive to realise the unfinished aspirations of our independence by ensuring equality, good governance, transparency and accountability," calling on citizens to build a safe, prosperous, and compassionate Bangladesh for future generations.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman called on all Bangladeshis to uphold national unity, tolerance, and patriotism. "The Great Independence Day inspires us anew with the spirit of courage, sacrifice and patriotism. The fundamental goal of independence was to establish a Bangladesh that is free from discrimination, and to be democratic, peaceful and prosperous," he said, paying tribute to the nation's martyrs and freedom fighters.
Nationwide, commemorative activities will engage the public throughout the day. The Bangladesh Navy and Coast Guard will open their ships at major ports, including Chattogram, Mongla, and Payra, as well as river terminals such as Sadarghat, Pagla Ghat, Barishal, Chandpur, and Munshiganj, from 9am to sunset.
Sports tournaments – including football, T20 cricket, kabaddi, and ha-du-du – will be held at district and upazila levels. Cinema halls will screen Liberation War-themed films free of charge, museums will welcome visitors without admission fees, and recreational centres for children will remain open.
Special postage stamps will be issued, and government institutions – including hospitals, prisons, rehabilitation centres, orphanages, disability welfare centres, and old-age homes – will serve celebratory meals.
National flags will flutter atop all government, semi-government, autonomous, and private buildings, while prominent establishments in Dhaka will be illuminated. Citizens across the country will pay tribute to martyrs and freedom fighters, blending solemn remembrance with patriotic celebration.
The day's observances will conclude with an evening concert at Manik Mia Avenue from 6pm to 11:30pm. Traffic along the avenue – from Arong Crossing to Khejurbagan Crossing – will be suspended, with vehicles rerouted via Lake Road, Urojahaj Crossing, and Mirpur Road.
The DMP has urged citizens to follow traffic directives, ensuring the Independence Day festivities proceed safely while honouring the sacrifices and legacy of Bangladesh's freedom fighters.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
