DHAKA: The first phase of Ijtema has begun early Friday on the bank of the Turag River at Tongi, on the outskirts of the capital amid a non-stop countrywide blockade enforced by the BNP-led 20-party alliance.

However, the 50th congregation of the Biswa Ijtema, the second largest gathering of Muslims after the holy Hajj, started through ambayan after Fajr prayer.

Thousands of people from home and abroad are expected to join Juma prayers on the first day of congregation, said organizers adding devotees started thronging the bank of Turag two/ three days before the Ijtema amid immense sufferings due to the road-water-railway blockade.

Five medical camps have been set up at Munnu gate, Atlas gate, Bata Factory gate, Tongi Hospital to provide free medical services for devotees in case of emergencies. A sum of 12 ambulances remained deployed to transport patients to hospital if necessary. 

 Engineering department of Bangladesh Army has set up seven floating bridges to cross the Turag river. Besides, Gazipur City Corporation has installed 11 tube wells to ensure supply of more than 3-crore litres pure drinking water a day and renovated bathrooms and public toilets at the venue.

On the other hand, law enforcement agencies have taken a five-tire security measures in and around the venue of Biswa Ijtema.  More than 10,000 members of the RAB, police forces have been deployed to ensure security of devotees.

Media center and free WiFi zone for media persons was also set up there.

Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation has introduced special bus services to carry devotees to the Ijtema ground from across the country.

The first phase of the three-day Biswa Ijtema, being organised by Tablig Jamaat will conclude on Sunday with the Akheri Munajat seeking spiritual wellbeing and welfare of the Muslim Ummah, sources added.

On the other hand, the second phase of Ijtema will be held on January 16-18.

BDST: 0840 HRS, JAN 09, 2015/Update: 0947 HRS