Massive Crowd Swarms Dhaka's 300-Foot Road to Welcome Tarique Rahman

Dhaka’s 300-Foot Road (July 36 Expressway) has been transformed into a "sea of people" as millions of BNP supporters gathered to welcome Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman upon his return after 17 years.

Activists from across Bangladesh arrived overnight, with many sleeping outdoors to secure a spot near the Kuril-Purbachal stretch. By 8:00 am Thursday, the area was packed with supporters chanting slogans and carrying banners.

A 48ft by 36ft stage has been erected on the service lane to host a brief reception. Organizers expect a historic turnout of nearly five million people.

Despite the festive atmosphere—complete with bands and loudspeakers—the police have deployed a heavy presence to manage the crowd. IGP Dr. Baharul Alam reviewed security arrangements late Wednesday.

Supporters traveling from distant districts like Kushtia and Patuakhali expressed deep emotional ties, stating they traveled by launch and bus to see their leader in person for the first time in nearly two decades.