Hyderabad faces increasing nighttime heat stress

Hyderabad is facing increasing nighttime heat stress, according to the Telangana Socio-Economic Outlook (SCO) 2025 report. The report highlights that from March to August, nighttime temperatures in the core city are now 1.9°C warmer than in nearby areas. This is linked to the urban heat island effect. The urban heat island effect means the city retains more heat due to buildings and roads, becoming 0.7°C cooler during the day compared to surrounding regions. Health experts warn that hot nights make recovery from daytime heat difficult, leading to ongoing physical stress. Doctors caution that this heat can cause serious health issues such as heat exhaustion, strokes, and cardiovascular stress. Dark tar roads in Hyderabad absorb more heat during the day and release it at night, exacerbating the problem. They can also disrupt sleep and contribute to fatigue. In addition to physical stress, this heat can impact mental health as well. The report notes that the decrease in green spaces in high-rise buildings contributes to higher indoor temperatures, putting vulnerable groups at greater risk, including the elderly and children. The findings indicate that in April 2024, temperatures in Hyderabad were about 1°C higher than the average for the previous decade. Additionally, the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures has decreased significantly over the past ten years, highlighting a concerning trend in urban heat retention. The state government plans to address these issues through its Clean and Green Energy Policy 2025.