The second phase of the 53rd Biswa Ijtema, the second largest congregation of Muslims after Hajj, began on the bank of the Turag river at Tongi in Gazipur after Fajr prayers today.

The ijtema began with 'a'm bayan' (general sermons) by Bangladeshi Mawlana Mohammad Faruk, reports our Gazipur correspondent.

A total of 75 organisations are working together to make the second phase Ijtema successful, said Md Humayun Kabir, district commissioner of Gazipur.

Thousands of devotees from home and abroad gathered on the bank of the Turag river to take part in the religious event, UNB adds.

The second phase of the Ijtema will end through 'Akheri Munajat' on January 21 (Sunday).

A seven-tier security measures have been taken to ensure security of the Muslim devotees.

Besides, special measures have been taken to facilitate the movement of the devotees.

Around 50 close circuit cameras have been installed in and around the venue to monitor the Ijtema ground and the adjoining areas.

The first phase of Biswa Ijtema was held at the same venue on 13-15 January.

The Biswa Ijtema is being arranged on the bank of the Turag River since 1967. It is being held in two phases since 2011 to ease the accommodation and transportation problem, reports UNB.