El Niño Impact: Telangana May Consider Half-Day Schools and Work From Home

Telangana is facing growing concerns over water scarcity, with the possible impact of El Niño raising questions about the functioning of educational institutions and workplaces. According to reports, the government is exploring options such as half-day schools and online classes for colleges and universities if the shortage intensifies. Around 33 educational institutions have reportedly been identified as facing serious water-related challenges. With the situation potentially worsening by December, the possibility of shifting schools to half-day schedules is being discussed. The Telangana State Council of Higher Education is also examining whether digital or online classes could be considered to ensure that students' academic schedules are not disrupted. Council chairman Professor V. Balakista Reddy has advised students and educational institutions not to take decisions in haste. He said the situation would be reviewed in consultation with university vice-chancellors before any official announcement is made. Basara IIIT, which has around 9,000 students, has previously faced water shortages and extended its Dussehra holidays while conducting online classes.

The water shortage is also reportedly affecting Hyderabad's IT corridor, particularly areas such as Madhapur, Gachibowli, Kondapur, HITEC City and Kukatpally. Several IT companies in these locations are said to be depending heavily on water tankers. Reports suggest that nearly five lakh employees in the corridor are facing difficulties due to inadequate water supply. Proposals are being discussed to allow employees to work from home, which could reduce daily water consumption and help save electricity. There are also estimates that around 20 lakh employees from other districts and states could return to their hometowns if the situation worsens. Reports indicate that the government may issue guidelines encouraging IT companies to consider work-from-home arrangements from the Sankranti season. However, these measures remain under discussion, and no official decision has been announced.