The Dhaka University authorities on Saturday imposed restrictions on vehicle entry and movement on the campus and introduced a mandatory sticker system for motorcycles, citing security concerns amid the ‘prevailing situation’.

In two separate urgent notices issued by the Office of the Proctor, the university said the entry and movement of vehicles would be controlled, with exemptions for vehicles belonging to teachers, students, officers and employees of the university.

Vehicles bearing university stickers, ambulances, those carrying doctors and patients, journalists' vehicles, ride-sharing vehicles, food and online shopping delivery vehicles, and other government vehicles will be allowed to enter the campus.

The notices also said that the university authorities could search any person or vehicle for security reasons.

In the second notice, the proctor's office announced that it would issue security stickers for motorcycles.

Residential and non-residential students, teachers, officers and employees using motorcycles have been asked to apply to the proctor, with recommendations from their respective office heads, by November 19.

Applicants must submit documents proving motorcycle ownership, a university identity card, a photocopy of their driving licence and a passport-size colour photograph.

From November 20, motorcycles without stickers issued by the proctor's office will not be allowed to enter or move around the campus, the notice said.

Speaking to New Age, DU proctor Israfil Ratan said the measures has been taken as a preventive step after assessing students' psychological state amid recent provocative incidents and rumours.

‘We have taken the measures to control any motorcycle or vehicle, or anyone suspicious, so that no panic spreads among students,’ he said.

Asked how long the restrictions would remain in force, he said they would continue until security was ensured.

‘It will remain until further order. If we feel it needs to continue, it will continue,’ he said.

He added that the restrictions could be relaxed if the situation returned to normal and students no longer felt they were necessary. 

The proctor said the authorities had faced difficulties tracking motorcycles entering and leaving the campus at different times. 

‘A motorcycle of one of our students was stolen from the campus just yesterday. Such incidents are making us anxious,’ he said.

 Israfil said the university was installing AI-powered cameras across the campus to strengthen security. 

‘If possible, we will complete it by December and be much more secure. Then the administration may think it is good to be flexible, if it is good for students and the university environment, and we will withdraw this,’ he said.