Water crisis may disrupt academic calendar at Telangana universities; online classes among options

The Telangana Council of Higher Education (TGCHE) is reviewing the situation with vice-chancellors of various state universities to assess the impact of the water shortage and identify possible solutions. Officials are examining contingency measures to ensure that academic activities are not severely disrupted.

Osmania University (OU), which has more than 10,000 residential students besides hundreds of faculty members and support staff, is among the institutions facing pressure on its resources. The university's large residential population places considerable demand on essential facilities, particularly water.

Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad (JNTUH) has around 8,000–10,000 students across its main and constituent colleges, while Kakatiya University has approximately 6,000 students. The scale of student populations highlights the challenge of ensuring uninterrupted water supply across campuses.

Osmania University Vice-Chancellor Kumar M has indicated that the institution would follow the government's decision on managing the water crisis. The university is also facing additional pressure on its resources, with alleged encroachments reportedly affecting the availability of water and other facilities.

The possibility of shifting to online teaching or shortening the academic year reflects the seriousness of the situation. However, these remain potential measures under consideration, and no final decision has been announced.

The TGCHE's discussions with university heads are expected to focus on balancing water conservation, campus operations and the continuation of academic schedules until the situation improves.