Telangana, India's youngest state, was officially formed on June 2, 2014, after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. It is located in the southern part of the country, boasting a rich historical, cultural, and geographical significance. Its strategic location within the Deccan Plateau and its distinct geographical features make it a vital region for socio-economic development in India.
Geographical Coordinates
Telangana lies between 1546'N to 1947'N latitude and 7716'E to 8143'E longitude. It spans the southeastern part of the Deccan Plateau, making it a landlocked state bordered by five other Indian states.
Area
The total geographical area of Telangana is approximately 112,077 square kilometers, making it the 12th largest state in India. This accounts for about 3.42% of the total geographical area of the country.
Boundaries
Telangana shares its borders with five states:
Maharashtra: Lies to the north and northwest.
Chhattisgarh: Situated to the northeast.
Odisha: Borders the extreme eastern tip.
Andhra Pradesh: Surrounds the south and southeast, following the Krishna River as a natural boundary in several parts.
Karnataka: Found to the west and southwest.
These borders offer Telangana strategic economic and cultural connectivity with central, western, and southern India.
Physiographic Divisions
Telanganas terrain can be divided into the following physiographic features:
The Deccan Plateau:
Telangana is part of the peninsular plateau region of India.
The land is mostly undulating, interspersed with hills and valleys.
Elevation ranges between 300 to 600 meters above sea level.
Rivers:
The region is predominantly drained by the Godavari and Krishna rivers.
These rivers, along with their tributaries like the Manjira, Musi, and Bhima, form the lifelines of Telangana's agricultural and drinking water supply.
Mountain Ranges:
Small hill ranges, like the Balaghat, Nallamala, and Ananthagiri Hills, mark the states geography.
These hills are part of the Eastern Ghats and play a crucial role in influencing the climate and biodiversity.
Plains:
Telangana also features expansive plains, particularly in districts like Hyderabad, which serve as economic hubs.
Climate
Telangana experiences a tropical climate, primarily dictated by its location in the Deccan Plateau.
Summer (March to June):
Temperatures can soar up to 45C, particularly in May.
Monsoon (June to September):
Receives rainfall primarily from the southwest monsoon, with an annual average rainfall of 7501150 mm.
Winter (October to February):
Pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 12C to 28C.
Significance of Location
Telangana's location offers several advantages:
Connectivity:
Central positioning in peninsular India ensures excellent connectivity to major metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
Hyderabad, the capital city, acts as a technological and logistical hub.
Economic Opportunities:
The Krishna-Godavari Basin provides fertile lands and abundant water resources, boosting agriculture and allied industries.
The landlocked states location helps in the development of internal trade routes and industrial corridors.
Biodiversity:
Its geographic position fosters diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests, rivers, and scrublands, supporting wildlife in reserves like Kawal Tiger Reserve and Amrabad Tiger Reserve.
Cultural and Historical Context
The strategic location of Telangana has contributed significantly to its rich cultural heritage:
Historical Trade Routes:
Telangana was historically a part of the Satavahana dynasty, which controlled key trade routes in the Deccan Plateau.
The Golconda Fort near Hyderabad was a vital diamond trade hub during the medieval period.
Hyderabads Significance:
Centrally located in the state, Hyderabad is a melting pot of north and south Indian cultures.
Economic Zones
Telangana's geography facilitates the establishment of special economic zones (SEZs) for various industries:
Agriculture:
Fertile soil along river plains supports the cultivation of rice, cotton, and maize.
Industries:
The Hyderabad-Warangal Industrial Corridor leverages its central location.
IT Sector:
Hyderabad, known as Cyberabad, is a global IT hub due to its strategic connectivity and skilled workforce.
Challenges Related to Location
Despite its advantages, Telanganas location presents certain challenges:
Landlocked Nature:
Absence of direct coastal access limits trade via seaports.
Interstate Water Disputes:
Conflicts over sharing Krishna and Godavari river waters with neighboring states.
Climate Vulnerabilities:
Prolonged dry seasons make Telangana prone to droughts.