Dhaka, Dec. 31 -- Mourners have packed Manik Mia Avenue and surrounding roads in Dhaka to attend the funeral prayers of former prime minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Khaleda Zia.

BNP leaders and supporters were seen wearing black clothing or black badges, with many carrying party flags and portraits of Bangladesh's first female premier.

The funeral prayers are due to be held at 2pm on Wednesday across the southern plaza of the Parliament building and along the length of Manik Mia Avenue. Extensive security measures have been put in place in the area.

The turnout continued to grow through the afternoon as people filled open grounds behind the Aarong complex, including the Lalmatiya playground, as well as surro...