First phase of Ijtema begins today

GAZIPUR, Jan 8 (UNB): The first phase of Biswa Ijtema, the second largest congregation of the Muslims after Hajj, will begin tomorrow (Friday) on the bank of the Turag River at Tongi on the outskirts of the capital.
The congregation, also called the World Muslims' Congregation, will start formally with religious sermons after Fajr prayers Friday.
The first phase of the three-day Biswa Ijtema, being organised by Tablig Jamaat since 1946, will conclude on January 11 (Sunday) with the Akheri Munajat (concluding prayers) while the second phase is slated for January 16-18.
Several lakh Muslims are expected to attend the Juma prayers at the Ijtema venue.
Ijtema is being held in two phases from 2012 to ease accommodation problem. Preparations have almost been completed for smoothly holding the Ijtema.
Several lakh people from home and various other countries are expected to join the congregation.
Devotees have started thronging the Ijtema venue from Tuesday night, said organisers.
Bangladesh Army has set up seven bridges with pontoons connecting the two banks of the Turag for the movement of the devotees.
Devotees, especially those from the districts outside the capital, are undergoing acute sufferings on their way to the Ijtema venue while travelling by buses, trains or launches during the ongoing countrywide indefinite transport blockade enforced by the BNP-led 20-partry alliance.