Expired fire extinguishers in all 17 RU halls put 12,000 students at risk
Nearly 12,000 residential students at Rajshahi University (RU) are living under serious fire safety threat as every fire extinguisher installed in the 17 halls has expired, some as early as 2 October 2024. The university administration has taken no steps to refill or replace them, sparking widespread anxiety and anger among students.
The extinguishers were installed across the halls in October last year. Although their validity ended over a month ago, they remain in place and unusable in case of emergency. Students point out that extinguishers in the administrative building are still valid, prompting accusations of double standards.
Sumaiya Jahan, a resident of Munnujan Hall, said: “Many extinguishers here are old and have no visible expiry or manufacturing date. We are deeply worried whether they would work in an emergency, especially after the recent earthquakes.”
Majidul Islam of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Hall added: “The cylinders expired last month. If a fire breaks out, these will be useless. Are we expected to live with our lives at risk? Immediate refilling is urgently needed.”
Student Adviser Prof Dr Amirul Islam Konak expressed regret: “Fire incidents can be devastating. Fortunately, no major accident has occurred on campus yet. However, many extinguishers have indeed expired. Regular monitoring is essential.”
Convener of the Hall Provosts’ Council Prof Dr Jamirul Islam admitted he was unaware of the situation but promised: “If the extinguishers are truly expired, we will replace them very quickly.”
Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof Moha Farid Uddin Khan also claimed he was not informed but assured that the matter would be discussed with hall provosts and resolved promptly.
Students have demanded immediate replacement of all expired extinguishers and formation of a permanent fire safety monitoring committee to prevent future negligence.
