Hyderabad SDI

This page aims to bring to you certain spatial data that can help us understand how Hyderabad grew as a city and how it changed in terms of Land Use, Climatic Zones and Surface Temperature. It also aims to give an understanding of the relation between the urban form and the change in surface temperature. The data is developed based on the research project titled "Canopy Layer UHI Mitigation Strategies for Hyderabad Using Local Climate Zones (LCZs) Approach (TUR_24_01)" – For more details of which, click here.

To introduce Hyderabad city briefly, it is the capital of the state of Telangana in India, and is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and rapid modernization. Originally founded in 1591, the city was planned with the Charminar at its center (REF). Historically referred to as Bagyanagaram, Hyderabad is famously called the "City of Pearls" for its once thriving pearl and diamond trade. The present Hyderabad District was formed in August 1978 after the bifurcation of the erstwhile Hyderabad District, with its rural parts becoming Ranga Reddy District (REF). The district encompasses core municipal areas, including the old Municipal Corporation of Hyderabad region, Secunderabad Cantonment, Lalaguda, and Osmania University. Covering an area of just 217 sq km, it is the smallest district in Telangana but the most densely populated, with a population of 3.94 million as per the 2011 Census. Hyderabad enjoys a tropical wet and dry climate, with hot summers (maximum temperatures touching 40°C), mild winters (minimum around 13.8°C), and an average rainfall of 89 cm during June to September. Situated at an average altitude of 536 meters, it offers favourable living conditions for most of the year, with the best season being June to February.

Economically, Hyderabad is a major IT and business hub, home to HITEC City and a growing number of multinational companies. It also has thriving pharmaceutical, biotechnology, automotive, electrical, and jewellery industries. The city blends modern infrastructure with a deep-rooted cultural identity, making it a favoured destination for both business and tourism. Hyderabad is equally renowned for its architectural landmarks and tourist attractions. The city's multicultural population predominantly speaks Urdu, Telugu, Hindi, and English and is known for its hospitality, vibrant bazaars, and world-famous cuisine. This unique combination of old-world elegance and cutting-edge growth, cements Hyderabad as one of India's most dynamic and iconic cities.