Preparations for the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025 are in full swing, but concerns linger over the timely completion of stalls and pavilions, especially at the Suhrawardy Udyan part of the venue.

With the inauguration scheduled for 1 February by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, many publishers and construction workers fear they may not meet the deadline set by Bangla Academy.

Despite instructions from Bangla Academy to complete construction and decoration works three days before the inauguration, several publishers admit that construction delays make it unlikely for all stalls and pavilions to be ready on time.

Syed Zakir Hosain, publisher of Adorn Publications, told the Daily Sun, “We are trying to complete everything by Friday, but realistically, it will not be possible as much work remains.”

He said that most publishers rely on the same designers and workers, causing delays.

A visit to the venue on Tuesday revealed construction workers still laying bricks for pavement, while the sounds of hammering and drilling filled the air.

Saiful Islam, a contractor overseeing several stalls and pavilions, said, “I am working for five stalls and two pavilions. It will be tough to finish everything before the first day. However, as in previous years, all stalls and pavilions are typically completed within the first week.”

Dr Sarker Amin, member secretary of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair Management Committee, expressed optimism, saying, “We have instructed publishers to finish on time to avoid the disorganised starts seen in previous years. If anyone fails, their efforts will be re-evaluated.”

This year’s fair, themed “July Uprising: Building New Bangladesh,” will host 693 organisations across the Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan venues. The fair will be open from 3pm to 9pm on weekdays and 11am to 9pm on weekends, with special hours for children (Shishu Prohor) on Friday and Saturday mornings.

The fair policies include a 25% discount on books and a strict prohibition on exhibiting or selling publications containing content deemed anti-state, anti-Liberation War, or anti-2024 uprising.

According to Bangla Academy, security arrangements feature archway gates at each entrance, a first aid centre with a doctor and ambulance and prayer facilities for men and women. The fair will also provide a mother-and-baby corner, safe drinking water and dedicated stages for book unveilings and author-reader interactions.