How you can access the Dhaka University swimming pool

The Dhaka University (DU) swimming pool, managed by the Physical Education Centre, offers a structured environment for everyone, from university students to the general public, to learn swimming. If you are looking to take the plunge, here is everything you need to know about getting access, the costs involved, and the rules of the water.

Choosing your membership category

The first step is identifying which category you fall into, as the fee structure varies significantly based on your affiliation with the university.

1. DU students: This is the most affordable tier. Current DU students pay a modest monthly fee of BDT 100.
2. DU staff and families: Teachers, officers, and staff members (including their dependants) pay BDT 1500 for the initial three months, with a monthly renewal fee of BDT 750. There is also an annual session option for BDT 2700.
3. General public (Outsiders): If you are not affiliated with DU (this includes former DU students), you can still join. The initial three-month fee is BDT 5000, followed by a monthly renewal of BDT 2000.

Gather your paperwork

Before heading to the Physical Education Centre, ensure you have your documentation ready. Across all categories, you will generally need a copy of your National ID (NID) or birth certificate, one passport-size photo, and one stamp-size photo. DU students and staff must also provide a copy of their official university ID card. If you are renewing a previous membership, remember to bring your old card with you.

Respect the weekly routine

The pool follows a strict schedule to accommodate different groups, and it is important to show up during your designated slot. It’s important to note that male and female trainees have separate time slots for privacy reasons. The tabulated routine is shown at the time of admission.

1. University students: They generally have access from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM on weekends (separate time slots for male and female students).
2. For outsiders: Weekday slots are usually reserved for the the general public from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. On weekends, female outsiders can swim from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, while male outsiders are slotted for 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
3. Maintenance break: Keep in mind that the facility is closed every Thursday for essential cleaning and maintenance to keep the water safe and clear.

The training protocols

The pool operates on a precise 60-minute cycle for every session. You should allocate the first 15 minutes for preparation, which includes changing and stretching. This leaves you with a solid 45 minutes of actual swimming time. Efficiency is key, as all swimmers must exit the water promptly when their hour is up.

Follow the safety and hygiene rules

To maintain a high standard of health and safety, the authorities enforce several mandatory guidelines:

1. The deep end warning: Beginners must always inform their coaches before entering the water. The west side of the pool is deep and can be dangerous for those still learning.
2. Mandatory showers: You must shower before entering the pool to rinse off sweat and germs.
3. Proper attire: Standard swimming costumes are mandatory. Heavy clothing is strictly prohibited, as it is dangerous for the swimmer and pollutes the water.
4. Health gear: While not strictly mandatory, the facility highly recommends using goggles to avoid chlorine irritation, swim caps to protect your hair, and earplugs if you are prone to ear infections. The swim cap, goggles, and earplugs cost BDT 500. If you want to purchase the entire swimming outfit, including the gear, the total cost will be BDT 1000.

Maintain the facility standards

Access to the pool is a privilege that comes with social responsibilities. Smoking is strictly prohibited on the premises, and hygiene is a top priority—spitting or coughing in the water is forbidden. Finally, remember that your membership is personal; using someone else’s ID card to gain entry is a serious violation that could lead to your admission being cancelled by the authorities.