Security concerns on DU campus

FE Team | Published: May 05, 2026 21:49:18

Dhaka University is not only a centre of learning; it is also located within a busy urban environment where a sense of insecurity is becoming increasingly visible. One of the major concerns for students is the uncontrolled movement of vehicles inside the campus.
Since the university falls within the city corporation area, different types of vehicles naturally pass through it. However, reckless driving, overspeeding, violation of traffic rules, and disregard for zebra crossings have all made daily movement risky for students. In addition, the free entry of outsiders, the presence of aimless wanderers, and weak security measures add to the problem. Most concerning is that female students often face various forms of harassment, which deepens the overall feeling of insecurity. As a result, students constantly feel anxious, as if an accident or unwanted incident could happen at any moment.
To improve this situation, effective and well-organised steps are necessary. Vehicle movement should be controlled during specific times, especially during class hours, and the entry of outside vehicles should be limited. At the same time, the campus should be made more pedestrian-friendly, giving priority to students' movement.
Strengthening security infrastructure is also essential. Installing speed breakers and CCTV cameras, and ensuring the presence of sufficient security personnel and traffic police, can help control the situation. Raising awareness among drivers and pedestrians about traffic rules is equally important.
Moreover, a quick complaint and response system should be established so that immediate action can be taken in cases of harassment or accidents. It is also important to restrict the movement of large vehicles and private cars around academic buildings.
A university is not just a collection of buildings; it is a place where students build their dreams and future. If this place becomes unsafe, the learning environment is affected. Therefore, it is time to take effective steps to make the campus safe, comfortable, and student-friendly.
Ibrahim Ibney Aziz
Department of Sociology
University of Dhaka