Dhaka University students were seen leaving their residential halls from Sunday morning following directives issued by the authorities in the wake of the earthquake that struck central Bangladesh on Friday, killing 10 people.

During visits to several halls on campus, many female students were found heading home, while male students were also seen preparing to leave. Those who remain said they are still unsure whether they should stay or go.

At a Syndicate meeting on Saturday, the university suspended all academic activities until December 6, citing the physical and mental stress caused by the recent earthquake and subsequent tremors, as well as the need to renovate the residential halls.

Hall provosts were instructed to ensure that all students vacate the halls by 5pm on Sunday.

While many students welcomed the decision taken in response to earthquake-related fears, others expressed discomfort with the sudden instruction to leave. Some said they have tuition responsibilities or are preparing for job recruitment exams, and closing the halls leaves them with no place to stay.

Talking to UNB, many claimed forcing students to vacate the halls is not a permanent solution to the crisis. A few suggested that the decision to close Haji Muhammad Mohsin Hall—reported to be structurally risky—may be linked to the recent student occupation of staff quarters there.

Most students, however, have already left. Many said they feel anxious living inside old and vulnerable buildings.

At least 15 students were injured last Friday after jumping from halls in panic during the earthquake. On Saturday night, students of Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Hall and Bangladesh-Kuwait Maitree Hall also rushed outside in fear after feeling an aftershock, with some reportedly suffering panic attacks.

“In such circumstances, leaving the hall seems like the safer option,” said a student who wished to remain anonymous.

Ismail Nahid, a resident of Sergeant Zahurul Haq Hall, said he is still unsure whether he will leave or stay and is currently remaining in his dorm.