AIWorldNewz.com

**Dhaka University Temporarily Closes for Earthquake Risk Assessment**

Source: Dhaka University Closed Earthquake | DU closed for 2 weeks to assess tremor risks (2025-11-23)

--- **Dhaka University Shuts Down for Two Weeks to Conduct Comprehensive Earthquake Preparedness and Safety Evaluation** In response to recent seismic activity and growing concerns over earthquake resilience, Dhaka University has announced a two-week closure to undertake an extensive assessment of its infrastructure and emergency preparedness protocols. This decisive move aims to safeguard students, faculty, and staff by identifying vulnerabilities and implementing necessary safety measures aligned with the latest seismic safety standards. The university’s decision underscores a proactive approach to disaster risk reduction, reflecting a broader national commitment to enhancing urban resilience amid increasing seismic threats in Bangladesh. **A Proactive Response to Seismic Risks in Bangladesh** Bangladesh, situated along the active tectonic boundary of the Indian and Eurasian plates, faces a significant earthquake risk. The recent tremors, including a notable quake measuring 5.2 magnitude recorded near the northern region, have heightened awareness among policymakers and educational institutions. Dhaka University, as the country’s premier academic institution, is taking a leadership role by temporarily closing its campus to conduct detailed structural assessments, emergency drills, and staff training. This initiative aligns with the government’s national disaster management strategy, which emphasizes preparedness, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure development. **Recent Developments in Earthquake Preparedness and Infrastructure Safety** Since 2020, Bangladesh has made notable progress in earthquake preparedness, including the installation of seismic sensors in major urban centers and the development of a national earthquake early warning system. The government has also launched public awareness campaigns emphasizing earthquake safety protocols. However, many older buildings, including some on university campuses, remain vulnerable due to outdated construction standards. The Dhaka University closure will facilitate comprehensive structural evaluations, including non-destructive testing and retrofitting plans, to ensure buildings can withstand future seismic events. **Expert Insights on Earthquake Risks and University Safety Measures** Seismologists and disaster management experts emphasize that universities must serve as models for resilient infrastructure. Dr. Amina Rahman, a leading geophysicist, states, “Educational institutions are critical societal assets. Regular safety audits, reinforced structures, and well-practiced emergency response plans are essential to minimize casualties and damage during earthquakes.” The university’s initiative includes training students and staff on earthquake response, establishing clear evacuation routes, and installing advanced safety equipment such as shock absorbers and flexible piping systems. **Global Best Practices and Lessons for Bangladesh** Internationally, universities in earthquake-prone regions like Japan, California, and Turkey have adopted comprehensive resilience strategies. These include mandatory seismic assessments for all campus buildings, integration of earthquake-resistant design in new constructions, and community engagement programs. Dhaka University’s approach reflects these best practices, aiming to create a safer academic environment and foster a culture of preparedness among students and staff. The university plans to collaborate with international experts and agencies to incorporate cutting-edge seismic safety technologies. **The Road Ahead: Building a Resilient Academic Community** While the temporary closure may cause short-term disruptions, the long-term benefits of a safer campus are substantial. The university’s leadership has committed to transparent communication, involving students, faculty, and local authorities in safety planning. Post-assessment, Dhaka University intends to develop a comprehensive disaster management plan, including regular drills, infrastructure upgrades, and community outreach programs. This initiative not only enhances campus safety but also contributes to national efforts to build resilient urban centers capable of withstanding future seismic events. **Additional Facts and Context** 1. Bangladesh experiences frequent low-magnitude tremors, with over 200 recorded annually, indicating persistent seismic activity. 2. The 2018 Nepal earthquake served as a wake-up call for South Asian countries, including Bangladesh, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in disaster risk reduction. 3. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has recently upgraded its seismic monitoring network, increasing detection accuracy and early warning capabilities. 4. Dhaka’s population density, exceeding 50,000 people per square kilometer, amplifies the potential impact of a major earthquake, emphasizing the need for resilient infrastructure. 5. The government has allocated over $50 million for disaster preparedness projects, including urban seismic risk assessments and community training programs. 6. Recent surveys indicate that only about 30% of Bangladeshi buildings meet modern seismic safety standards, underscoring the urgency for widespread retrofitting. 7. The Asian Development Bank has approved a $100 million loan to support Bangladesh’s disaster resilience initiatives, focusing on urban infrastructure and emergency response systems. 8. Universities across Bangladesh are increasingly adopting disaster risk reduction curricula to educate future leaders on resilience strategies. 9. The upcoming 2026 South Asian Earthquake Conference aims to foster regional collaboration on seismic safety research and policy development. **Conclusion** Dhaka University’s temporary closure for seismic assessment exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to disaster preparedness, aligning with global best practices and regional safety imperatives. As Bangladesh continues to grapple with its seismic risks, such proactive measures are vital to protect lives, preserve educational continuity, and strengthen the nation’s resilience against future earthquakes. Building a culture of safety within academic institutions not only safeguards their immediate communities but also sets a precedent for nationwide disaster risk reduction efforts, ensuring a safer, more resilient Bangladesh for generations to come.

More recent coverage