Following Adilabad's inclusion in 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.
Current Rankings and Temperatures
The list, 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. Rankings change throughout the day as temperature data is updated intermittently.
On Saturday, Ramagundam was ranked 59th globally, 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.
Geographical and Meteorological Factors
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, sweep 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.
Industrial Impact in Ramagundam
In the case of Ramagundam, located in Peddapalli district, experts attribute the elevated temperatures to its industrial profile. The city houses major thermal power infrastructure, including operations of the National Thermal Power Corporation, which contribute to localized heat generation.
Urban Heat Island Effect in Hyderabad
Urban centers face 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 noted 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.
Warning of Further Inclusions
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 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.
