The book fair gates opened at 8am in the morning, expecting huge crowds of visitors, back from paying their respects at the Central Shaheed Minar, waiting in line to get into the fair. However, unlike in past years, this year the entrance to the fair saw no eager crowds gathered to get in. Instead, on Thursday, the book fair saw visitors in black and white attire and in sombre mood. Sales representatives ready to see a busy day at their stalls saw even less book sales than usual. Meanwhile, police authorities arranged a blood donation service at the book fair, allowing willing donors to support the Chawkbazar fire victims.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 21, 2019 19:07 UTC