Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, and is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. In 2024, it is expected to occur between 10-12 April, the exact date remains subject to the sighting of the moon, varying by geographical location. Throughout the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, this occasion is marked by communal gatherings and prayers.

In anticipation of the festivities, heightened security measures are set to continue through the second week of April 2024 to ensure public safety. Further, law enforcement agencies may implement additional patrols, checkpoints, and intelligence gathering to detect and deter potential threats. It is thereby prerogative for the businesses to stay abreast of potential disruptions and security arrangements.

Potential Disruptions and Government Measures

South Asia

INDIA

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Emergency Contact	112
Police	100
Medical/Ambulance	102
Fire	101

• Heightened security vigilance and additional police deployment are expected at religious places to ensure safety.
• In reference to past instances, state governments are likely to issue a ban on animal sacrifices at public places, including roads, hospitals, schools, colleges and parks without prior permission from appropriate authorities.
• Traffic disruptions are likely around areas of popular celebration like Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk in Delhi, Mohammed Ali Road and Bhendi Bazaar in Mumbai, Old City in Hyderabad, Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza in Lucknow and Park Circus and Zakaria Street in Kolkata.

BANGLADESH

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Emergency Contact	999
Police	100
Medical/Ambulance	999
Civil Defense/Fire	102

• The government of Bangladesh has officially declared public holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr from 10-12 April 2024, contingent upon the sighting of the moon.
• A proposal has been put forth to extend the holiday by an additional day, commencing from 09 April 2024.
• Banks have been instructed to operate extended hours, including on days preceding Eid closure, to ensure timely payment of workers’ salaries.
• Enhanced police patrols will be deployed in major cities and ports, including diplomatic zones in Dhaka like Gulshan, Baridhara, and Banani.
• The Road Transport and Highways Division has imposed a ban on heavy vehicles and three-wheelers on highways three days prior to and after Eid to facilitate smooth travel.
• A total of 155 potential traffic congestion points have been identified nationwide and will be closely monitored pre and post Eid. Traffic congestion is prominent on key roads leading to and from Dhaka, Chittagong, Gazipur, and Sylhet during Eid.
• Vehicles transporting goods are prohibited from carrying passengers.
• A comprehensive four-tier security plan is anticipated at the National Eidgah to ensure the safety of attendees during the main Eid Jamaat (congregation).
• To enhance security in markets and shopping malls, increased patrols by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and special night time security arrangements will be deployed.
• Temporary law enforcement camps will be established and monitored at railway stations, bus terminals, and launch terminals.
• Coordination between Highway Police, RAB, and district police will be strengthened to address traffic issues.
• Deployment of drones and strict control measures against extortion on highways will be enforced. Fire service and civil defense teams will be on standby with rescue equipment for emergency situations on highways and waterways, supported by the Coast Guard if necessary.

PAKISTAN

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Emergency Contact	15
Police	15
Medical/Ambulance	1166
Civil Defense/Fire	16

• During Eid, heavy traffic congestion is often observed on GT Road (Grand Trunk Road), Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M-2) and Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1).
• Popular places of grand celebrations include- Badshahi Mosque and Minare-Pakistan in Lahore and Faisal Mosque in Islamabad.
• The Centre Police Office (CPO) of Faisalabad announced comprehensive security measures to ensure the safety of worship places, public areas, markets, and shopping centers.
  • Foolproof security arrangements have been established around mosques, Imambargahs (Islamic centers), and other religious sites to prevent any untoward incidents.
  • Additional police personnel will be deployed at shopping centers, bazaars (markets), and women’s shopping centers to ensure the safety of all citizens.
  • The Dolphin Force, Elite Force, and Eagle Squad will maintain heightened vigilance from 1600 hours to midnight.
• In Karachi, security measures are being intensified at key shopping centers in anticipation of Eid-ul-Fitr festivities.
  • Additional personnel have been stationed around major markets, and traffic police have restricted heavy traffic and public transport from accessing roads leading to shopping hubs to ensure smooth flow of traffic.

Southeast Asia

INDONESIA

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Emergency Contact	112
Police	110
Medical/Ambulance	118 or 119
Civil Defense/Fire	113 or 1131

• The Ministry of Transportation expects a 50 percent increase from last year in Eid homecoming travellers, totaling approximately 193.6 million.
• The Java North Coast (Pantura) route is expected to experience traffic congestion, as it is a preferred route for Eid travellers.
• To alleviate traffic congestion and reduce road accidents, free public transportation is being provided in Java, and surveillance at entry points has been intensified to combat illegal activities, particularly drug trafficking.
• Enhanced transportation security, especially on sea routes, aims to prevent accidents during the Eid-ul-Fitr homecoming exodus.
• Anticipated traffic restrictions include those along the West Karawang KM 47 toll road and the Cikampek KM 72 Toll Road.

MALAYSIA

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Emergency Contact	999 or 112
Police	321 159 999 or 322 662 222
Medical/Ambulance	999 or 991
Civil Defense/Fire	999/994

• The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) and PLUS Malaysia Berhad have implemented measures to ensure smooth and safe travel on tolled highways during Ramadan, anticipating increased traffic volume, especially during peak commuting hours (0900-1300 hours and from 1600 to 2000 hours).
• Front-line staff and technical assistance teams will be increased and on standby at toll plazas to provide support.
• In case of an emergency, contact PLUSLine at 1800-88-0000 or LLM’s Traffic Management Centre at 1–800–88–7752 for assistance.

SINGAPORE

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Non-Emergency Ambulance Service	1777
Police	999
SCDF Ambulance and Fire Service	995
Traffic Police Information Hotline	6547 0000

• Anticipate heavy security deployment at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the holiday period, covering both the QingMing Festival and Eid ul-Fitr or Hari Raya Puasa, due to the expected surge in traffic.

PHILIPPINES

Ramadan Calendar	https://www.islamicfinder.org/ramadan-calendar/42980752/india-ramadan-calendar/
Emergency Contact	911
Police	911
Medical/Ambulance	1555
Civil Defense/Fire	911, (02) 426-0219 (NCR)

• The state-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Pura II (AP II) has made arrangements at 20 airports nationwide for homecoming travellers, extending operating hours to accommodate higher flight volumes.
• Additionally, 9,416 personnel, including security and service staff, will be stationed at these airports.
• The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced heightened vigilance, particularly considering previous incidents like the December 2023 bombing in Marawi, although no specific threats have been reported.

Potential Risks

Recommendations

Organisations

• Allow additional travel time and consider alternative routes when commuting to event venues or conducting business in areas prone to congestion during Eid festivities.
• Stay updated on any official notifications or advisories regarding traffic management measures or health regulations during the festival to ensure compliance and safety.
• Develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions to supply chains, logistics, or production schedules during Eid, including alternative suppliers or backup resources.
• As Eid-ul-Fitr is observed as a national holiday in most countries, it is advisable to refrain from scheduling critical meetings or deadlines around this time and the preceding days to accommodate employees who are observing the holiday.
• Coordinate with local authorities and community leaders to address any potential security concerns or logistical challenges.
• As banks and government offices may be shut during Eid-ul-Fitr, plan for related work activities in advance to avoid delays or disruptions to business operations.

Individuals

• Plan your travel arrangements in advance to avoid peak commuting hours (0900-1300 hours and 1600-2000 hours) and potential traffic congestion.
• Exercise caution and vigilance while in crowded areas or public gatherings. Report any suspicious activity or unattended luggage/item to the relevant authorities immediately.
• Respect local customs and traditions and observe appropriate etiquette in mosques and community spaces.
• Stay updated with government announcements regarding the Eid holiday extension and any related advisories through reliable news sources.
• It is advised to refrain from indulging in any religious/political debates, on both online and offline platforms as religious sentiments are likely to remain high.
• It is advised to adhere to rules regarding the prohibition of filming or clicking photos during prayer time inside the mosque.
• Holiday rush is anticipated at most airports, leading to delays at security checks. It is advised to arrive at the airport well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.