Hyderabad: After Adilabad appeared in the global list of top 100 hottest cities, three more locations of Telangana (Ramagundam, Kothapet and Mancherial) have appeared in the ranking, according to Prana Air’s AQI portal.The list, which updates dynamically based on real-time temperature readings, currently shows a significant presence of Indian cities, reflecting the heatwave conditions prevailing in much of the country. Ratings are subject to change throughout the day as temperature data is updated intermittently.On Saturday, Ramagundam was ranked 59th in the world list, followed by Mancherial at 64th, Kothapet at 76th and Adilabad at 91st. All four locations recorded maximum temperatures ranging between 43°C and 44.4°C.Nationwide, 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 pointed out that such high temperatures are not unusual in districts like Adilabad and Mancherial, given their geographical position. Located in northern Telangana and bordering the heat-prone Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, these areas are particularly vulnerable to extreme summer conditions.According to Dharma Raju, a scientist at the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the region lies within what is often described as a “core heat zone.” He explained that persistent northerly winds, which are usually dry in nature, hit these districts, significantly raising surface temperatures. “The situation is further aggravated by low levels of humidity and minimal vegetation cover. In addition, clear skies and the absence of clouds allow maximum solar radiation during the day, intensifying the heat experienced on the ground,” he stated.In the case of Ramagundam, located in Peddapalli district, experts attribute the high temperatures to its industrial profile. The city is home to significant thermal energy infrastructure, including the operations of the National Thermal Power Corporation, which contribute to localized heat generation.Meanwhile, urban centers face a different but equally worrying challenge. Localities like Kothapet in Hyderabad have been appearing intermittently on the global list over the past week.Urban biodiversity researcher G Sailu said the area, situated along the Musi River, acts as a basin that traps and retains heat. “This, combined with declining groundwater levels, limits the earth’s natural ability to regulate temperature,” he said.Vata Foundation’s Uday Krishna warned that more cities in Telangana could soon appear on those global heat lists if current trends continue. He highlighted that the uncontrolled loss of green cover, large-scale tree felling and the invasion of water bodies are accelerating the warming trend. “Development practices that ignore ecological balance are likely to have serious consequences, including deteriorating air quality, water scarcity, and reduced overall livability. “There is a need for more responsible urban planning, protection of existing natural resources and stricter scrutiny before granting permits for activities that impact the environment,” he said. MSID:: 130516350 413 |