Dhaka, April 9 -- The government has directed that all programmes to celebrate the Bengali New Year 1433 must conclude by 6pm, pledging heightened security across the country on the occasion.

The home ministry mandated the deadline in a media statement on Thursday, issuing a number of instructions and restrictions for Pahela Baishakh.

The directives are:

>> No new entry will be allowed at Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka University, Hatirjheel and Rabindra Sarobar and other event venues after 5pm.

>> Lanterns, fireworks, gas balloons and vuvuzelas will be completely prohibited nationwide on security grounds.

>> Strict measures will be taken to stop motorcycle or car racing on the 300 Feet Road.

>> Dhaka University's Faculty of Fi...