Hyderabad: After Adilabad featured on the global list of the top 100 hottest cities, three more locations from Telangana — Ramagundam, Kothapet and Mancherial — have now appeared in the rankings, according to the AQI portal of Prana Air.The list, which is dynamically updated based on real-time temperature readings, currently shows a significant presence of Indian cities, reflecting prevailing heatwave conditions across large parts of the country. The rankings are subject to change throughout the day as temperature data is updated intermittently.On Saturday, Ramagundam was ranked 59th on the global list, followed by Mancherial at 64th, Kothapet at 76th and Adilabad at 91st. All four locations recorded high temperatures ranging between 43°C and 44.4°C.At the national level, the top five hottest cities on the same day included Banda in Uttar Pradesh, followed by Akola, Bhusawal and Jalgaon in Maharashtra, and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.Meteorological experts noted that such high temperatures are not unusual for districts like Adilabad and Mancherial, given their geographical positioning. Located in northern Telangana and bordering the heat-prone Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, these areas are particularly vulnerable to extreme summer conditions.According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) scientist Dharma Raju, the region falls within what is often described as a ‘heat core zone’. He explained that persistent northerly winds, which are typically dry in nature, are sweeping across these districts, significantly raising surface temperatures. “The situation is further aggravated by low humidity levels and minimal vegetation cover. In addition, clear skies and the absence of cloud cover allow for maximum solar radiation during the day, intensifying the heat experienced on the ground,” he said.In the case of Ramagundam, located in Peddapalli district, experts attribute the elevated temperatures to its industrial profile. The city is home to major thermal power infrastructure, including operations of the National Thermal Power Corporation, which contribute to localised heat generation.Urban centres, meanwhile, are facing a different but equally concerning challenge. Localities such as Kothapet in Hyderabad have intermittently appeared on the global list over the past week.Urban biodiversity researcher G Sailu said that the area, situated along the Musi River, acts like a basin that traps and retains heat. “This, combined with declining groundwater levels, limits the land’s natural ability to regulate temperature,” he said.Uday Krishna of the Vata Foundation cautioned that more cities from Telangana could soon feature on such global heat lists if current trends continue. He stressed that the unchecked loss of green cover, large-scale tree felling and encroachment of water bodies are accelerating the warming trend. “Development practices that overlook ecological balance are likely to have severe consequences, including deteriorating air quality, water scarcity and reduced overall liveability. There is a need for more responsible urban planning, protection of existing natural resources, and stricter scrutiny before granting permission for activities that impact the environment,” he said. MSID:: 130516350 413 |
