Staff Correspondent

The Bangladesh Coast Guard has deployed approximately 3,500 personnel across its operational jurisdictions to ensure the peaceful, vibrant, and secure celebration of Sharadiya Durga Puja.

Rear Admiral Md. Moinul Hasan, Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, shared the information while inspecting security arrangements at Mirpur Central Temple in the capital on Friday morning.

Speaking to reporters during the visit, the Coast Guard chief emphasized that the force plays a critical role in safeguarding coastal and riverine regions while maintaining general law and order. He noted that in line with government directives, the Coast Guard consistently contributes to securing key installations, religious places of worship, and public safety during major religious festivals.

"Around 3,500 of our personnel are working tirelessly to prevent any untoward incidents across our operational areas during Durga Puja," Rear Admiral Moinul Hasan stated. "Our forces are actively securing a total of 615 temples and puja mandaps across coastal and riverine zones—including 63 in the East Zone, 144 in the West Zone, 371 in the South Zone, and 37 in the Dhaka Zone."

He added that intelligence surveillance has been intensified and joint operations are underway in coordination with other law enforcement agencies to maintain a peaceful environment for Hindu devotees.

To prevent maritime and riverine accidents during the festivities, continuous water patrols and public awareness drives are being conducted. Specialized diving teams have also been kept on standby to handle emergencies during immersion ceremonies (Pratima Visarjan).

The Coast Guard chief urged citizens to contact the emergency hotline 16111 for immediate assistance in case of any untoward situation, reaffirming that public security operations will continue throughout the festival.