Structural Cracks Force Emergency Relocation of Students at Shahjalal University Hall
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Authorities at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) have begun relocating dozens of students from the Ayesha Siddika Hall following the discovery of significant structural cracks in the facility’s C Block. The move, aimed at averting potential safety hazards in the earthquake-prone region, has impacted 36 students residing on the third and fourth floors of the building.
Acting Provost Fahmida Akhtar confirmed that the affected rooms, including numbers 322 through 325 and 422 through 426, have been deemed high-risk. To ensure student safety, university officials issued a directive to clear the area, prompting an immediate transition of residents to the hall’s guest rooms, television lounge, and other available spaces. According to a report by Prothom Alo, the decision was finalized following an on-site inspection by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, proctor, and the director of student counseling and guidance.
The administration has announced a 10-day timeline to secure more permanent accommodations for the displaced students. Officials emphasized that the structural integrity of the C Block posed an immediate risk, necessitating urgent intervention to prevent accidents.
Despite the emphasis on safety, the sudden relocation has triggered complaints from the student body regarding temporary living conditions. Several residents expressed frustration over being moved into crowded common rooms during their final year of study, questioning why the structural concerns were not addressed sooner.
Saiful Islam, the director of student counseling and guidance, acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the abrupt transition but maintained that prioritize the students’ safety remains the administration’s primary objective. He assured that the university is working to resolve the housing shortage within a week, noting that the urgency was dictated by the structural instability of the hall in an area known for seismic activity.
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