Sylhet:Preparations for Sharadiya Durga Puja are nearly complete in Sylhet Division, with 2,766 puja mandaps being set up across the four districts. Authorities have banned fireworks to ensure a peaceful festival environment.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Al Mamun has instructed officials to prevent any activities that could disturb visitors or residents. Idol makers are working diligently, with many having completed the framework, straw binding, and clay coating, while painting and decoration are ongoing.
In Sylhet district and metropolitan area, 636 mandaps are being prepared, with 474 in the district and 162 in the city. Of these, 448 are community-based and 26 are family-run in the district, while the city has 146 community and 16 family mandaps. The Airport and Kotwali police station areas are among those with the highest number of mandaps.
The Sylhet district and metropolitan Puja Udjapan Parishad has issued 18 directives for a smooth celebration and formed a monitoring cell. The Sylhet City Corporation has promised civic services including road repairs and water supply.
Moulvibazar will host the highest number of mandaps in the division, with 1,022. Among its upazilas, Kulaura has the most, followed by Sreemangal and Kamalganj. In Habiganj district, 664 mandaps are being prepared, with Baniachong and Madhabpur having the most. Sunamganj will see 444 mandaps set up across its upazilas.
Security measures include volunteer teams, night guards, CCTV cameras, and regular monitoring. The deputy commissioner has called for a collaborative effort from puja committees, law enforcement, and volunteers to ensure a peaceful festival. He emphasized adherence to the idol immersion schedule, with metropolitan activities ending by 9pm and district activities by 7pm.