Kochi: The Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) on Monday announced that all university examinations except final semester exams scheduled between May 24 and 31 have been postponed.

The revised dates will be informed later, the University said.

While no official reason was stated, it is likely that the management was forced to make this decision in view of the several food poisoning cases reported in university hostels. (A CUSAT hostel accommodates 2,500 students.)

Over 100 students were taken to hospitals after they showed typical food poisoning symptoms like uneasiness, vomiting and fever. 

All students, save for those engaged in research work and final-year examinees, have been instructed to vacate the hostels.

Students from other states have until Wednesday to make the necessary travel arrangements.

The hostels will remain closed until further notice.

For the past week, students have been busy celebrating their annual talent festival.

A team from the Health Department has inspected the hostels. Samples of the water supplied to the hostels have been collected for testing.

A report will be filed soon. The University said it would take further action based on this report.