Dhaka: The "Akheri Munajat" (concluding prayers) of the first phase of Biswa Ijtema on the banks of the river Turag at Tongi was offered Sunday, ending the three-day annual Muslim congregation.

Tens of thousands of the Muslims from home and abroad are participating in the second largest congregation of the Muslims after Hajj.

Some four million people from all walks of life will join the Akheri Mmunajat before the Zohr prayers Sunday.

The second phase of the Ijtema will be held from January 18 to 20 in the same venue.

Devotees were pouring into the Ijtema ground and adjoining areas late in the evening.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ministers, MPs, political leaders and senior officials are expected to join the concluding prayers along with millions of devotees.

Loudspeakers have been set up at all directions beyond the Ijtema ground to facilitate people to listen to the Munajat.

The Ijtema formally began with 'Ambayan' (general sermon) after Fajr prayers at dawn Friday. On Saturday, the second day of the Ijtema, passed off through discussions on various issues, including teachings of Islam and supremacy of Allah.

The eminent Alims, in their sermons, stressed on following the guidance of the holy Quran and Sunnah. The sermons were translated into different languages of the world.

Dowry-free marriages of more than 100 couples were solemnized in the Ijtema.

Some 30 seriously sick devotees were admitted to hospital in the last two days. Of the in the health complications in two days in the Ijtema.

About 10,000 devotees from some 87 foreign countries have already joined the congregation, organisers said. Security and other facilities have been ensured in the Ijtema venue.

Besides tin sheds for foreign participants, temporary gunny roofing have been put up for the local participants. Tight security measures have been taken to ensure peaceful conclusion of the Ijtema. Measures have been taken to ensure supply of electricity and water in and around the Ijtema venue and ensure sanitation and health services for the devotees.

Permanent facilities like toilets and washrooms have been put while for water supply pipeline, installed previously, are already there.

Doctors are working round the clock at free medical camps, set up for providing medical support to the participants, if required. Special measures have taken for transportation of the devotees.

Ends/AMA/12/01/13