#vidarbha

Pre-Monsoon Showers to Pause, Temperatures May Rise to 42°C in Nagpur Nagpur is set to experience a temporary lull in pre-monsoon showers, which have provided brief relief from the intense summer heat. Weather experts predict that the region will transition to dry conditions over the next few days, allowing temperatures to climb again. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the southwest monsoon is unlikely to reach Nagpur and the broader Vidarbha region before June 10, prompting farmers to delay sowing activities until more favorable rainfall conditions emerge. The normal monsoon onset date for Vidarbha is June 15, but the IMD has forecasted a below-average monsoon this year. Over the past two years, the monsoon arrived earlier than usual, but its progression has been steady. However, this year’s forecast suggests a deviation from that trend. The recent pre-monsoon showers have temporarily lowered daytime temperatures, keeping them at relatively manageable levels. For instance, Nagpur recorded a maximum temperature of just over 40°C on Monday. With the weakening of rain-bearing systems, the IMD anticipates that dry weather will dominate in the short term. This could lead to a resurgence in temperatures, potentially reaching 42°C. Farmers in Vidarbha, including districts like Akola, Amravati, Wardha, Washim, and Yavatmal, have already experienced isolated rainfall. However, weather officials note that widespread rainfall is unlikely in the immediate future. Instead, intermittent localized showers may continue in some areas. The pause in pre-monsoon activity highlights the region’s vulnerability to heatwaves, which have been a recurring issue during the summer months.#nagpur #india_meteorological_department #amravati #vidarbha #akola

Surge in Oral and Lung Cancer Cases in Nagpur Linked to Kharra and Smoking Nagpur and the broader Vidarbha region are facing a sharp rise in oral and lung cancer cases, driven by the widespread use of kharra, a form of blended chewing tobacco, and smoking, according to oncologists and chest physicians. The issue has gained urgency ahead of World No Tobacco Day, observed on May 31, as experts warn that tobacco-related illnesses are increasingly affecting younger adults and women, breaking traditional patterns of risk. Dr. Saurabh Prasad, an oncologist, highlighted that oral and lung cancers now account for nearly 35% of all cancer cases reported in Nagpur. This figure is significantly higher than the 7% prevalence seen in many Western countries. He noted a growing number of patients among young adults and women, indicating that tobacco-related diseases are no longer confined to older or male-dominated high-risk groups. Dr. Sushant Meshram, professor and head of pulmonary medicine at Govt Medical College and Hospital, emphasized that tobacco remains one of the leading preventable causes of death globally. Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, including more than 70 known carcinogens, which damage lung tissue, impair lung function, and elevate the risk of lung cancer. Dr. Meshram also warned that second-hand smoke exposes family members and coworkers to similar dangers. Smoking further weakens the lungs’ natural defenses, making individuals more susceptible to tuberculosis. Dr. Rajesh Swarnakar, president of the Vidarbha Chest Association, described the consequences of tobacco addiction as visible in hospitals through cases of blackened lungs, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers detected at advanced stages.#nagpur #world_health_organization #vidarbha #kharra #world_no_tobacco_day

Vidarbha Endures Severe Heatwave Amid Sudden Storms and Widespread Damage Vidarbha continued to face extreme heatwave conditions on Tuesday, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels across the region. Brahmapuri recorded the highest temperature at 46.6°C, followed by Nagpur at 45.5°C, while Chandrapur, Wardha, and Gondia also ranked among India’s hottest locations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Wardha, Amravati, and Chandrapur, warning of severe heatwave conditions, while an orange alert remained in place for Nagpur and Gadchiroli. The IMD forecasted that heatwave to severe heatwave conditions, along with warm nights, would persist in isolated pockets of Vidarbha until May 29. A sudden shift in weather brought brief relief to parts of Amravati, Nagpur, Wardha, and Bhandara on Tuesday afternoon. Heavy rain, accompanied by gusty winds, swept through the region between 3:45 pm and 4:30 pm, causing significant damage. Strong winds uprooted trees and damaged hoardings in multiple areas, while fallen trees disrupted traffic. The rain also affected farmers, as wheat and tur stored in open yards at the Agriculture Produce Market Committee were drenched. Similar weather disruptions were reported in Morshi and other tehsils. The IMD noted that light rain occurred at isolated locations in Vidarbha over the past 24 hours, with heatwave conditions recorded at eight stations and severe heatwave at one station. Maximum temperatures ranged between 41.7°C and 47.6°C, remaining well above normal. However, the prolonged heatwave has raised environmental concerns. Environmentalist Suresh Chopne highlighted that 38 fire incidents were detected in Chandrapur district, with most occurring in Brahmapuri, where high temperatures accelerated the spread of fires.#nagpur #vidarbha #wardha #chandrapur #brahmapuri

CBSE Schools in Nagpur Plan Early Reopening Amid Summer Heat Concerns Some CBSE schools in Nagpur are considering reopening on June 1, during the peak of the summer heat, which has raised concerns about the safety of students exposed to extreme temperatures. While the decision remains "proposed" and primarily affects Classes 9 and 10, it comes as temperatures in the city already exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Weather forecasters have warned that intense dry heat is expected to persist for at least a week, complicating the timing of the reopening. The state of Maharashtra’s guidelines for schools in Vidarbha region mandate reopening only after June 26, a measure designed to protect students from the region’s harsh summer conditions. This norm applies to districts including Nagpur, Chandrapur, Wardha, Bhandara, and Gadchiroli. However, CBSE schools have historically defied this rule, typically reopening around June 15. This year, the debate over an early reopening sparked a legal intervention, though it did not directly impact CBSE institutions. When state board schools were scheduled to reopen on June 15, teachers’ associations filed a petition with the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court. The court questioned the logic of reopening during a heatwave and ordered a delay, effectively halting the state board’s plans. CBSE schools, however, were not part of this petition and remain outside its scope. The state education department has consistently stated it does not interfere with the academic calendars of other boards, effectively granting CBSE institutions autonomy in setting their reopening dates. An education official, who requested anonymity, noted, “We have to follow the rules. Earlier, our own department said reopen schools in Vidarbha on June 15 itself, so we had to obey.#nagpur #maharashtra #bombay_high_court #vidarbha #cbse_schools

Vidarbha Faces Intense Heatwave as Nautapa Period Begins, Bramhapuri Records 47.2°C The Nautapa period, a traditional marker of peak summer temperatures in Vidarbha, is set to begin on May 25, bringing prolonged scorching conditions across the region. Weather forecasts indicate maximum temperatures will range between 43°C and 45°C during the Nautapa period, which spans from May 25 to June 2. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that temperatures remained significantly above normal, with Bramhapuri emerging as the hottest location in the country at 47.2°C. Other districts recorded high temperatures, including Chandrapur at 45.6°C, Wardha at 45.5°C, Nagpur at 45.4°C, and Amravati and Gadchiroli at 45.2°C each. Gondia reached 45°C, while Bhandara hit 44.8°C. Humidity levels remained low, exacerbating the dry and harsh conditions. Scientifically, the Nautapa period coincides with the "zero shadow period," when the sun remains nearly overhead between latitudes 13° and 23.5°, causing direct solar heating of the land surface. This intensifies ground and air temperatures, creating extreme heatwave conditions. Hot winds from Rajasthan and Gujarat sweep across Vidarbha and central India during this time, further contributing to the heat. Environmentalist Suresh Chopane highlighted that historical records show some of the region’s highest temperatures—up to 48°C and 49°C—occur during Nautapa. He noted that temperatures in evening, late-night, and early-morning hours also remain above normal, reducing the usual cooling relief experienced during night hours. The persistent heat in cities like Nagpur is attributed to the "urban heat island effect," a phenomenon where rapid urbanization traps heat in urban areas.#suresh_chopane #vidarbha #india_metereological_department #nautapa_period #bramhapuri

Allot Exam Centres Within 2-Km Radius: Senate Member Urges Nagpur University to Prioritize Student Comfort Nagpur University (NU) Senate member Manmohan Bajpai has called on the university administration to allocate examination centres within a 2-km radius of students’ colleges to mitigate travel challenges amid an ongoing heatwave in Vidarbha. In a letter addressed to the vice-chancellor on Wednesday, Bajpai highlighted the extreme temperatures and referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation, urging the university to assign exams either at students’ own colleges or nearby institutions. He emphasized that centres located beyond a 2-km radius should be avoided, particularly for exams yet to commence, and requested immediate action for students facing such assignments. Bajpai also demanded that the university conduct a thorough verification of essential facilities at all designated examination venues. He listed critical amenities required, including clean drinking water, functioning fans, hygienic washrooms, adequate lighting, proper desks and benches, and free parking. According to him, several students have been reportedly assigned distant centres despite the availability of closer alternatives. Additionally, he cited complaints about inadequate facilities at certain venues, stressing that providing relief from extreme heat and ensuring fuel conservation should be the university’s top priority. The Senate member urged the administration to issue clear directives and offer immediate support to students, emphasizing the need to balance academic responsibilities with the health and safety of students during the severe weather conditions.#prime_minister_narendra_modi #nagpur_university #vidarbha #manmohan_bajpai #nagpur_university_senate

Severe Heatwave Grips Vidarbha; Wardha Records 46.5°C as Authorities Launch Health Response A prolonged heatwave continues to affect the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels across multiple cities. On Monday, Wardha emerged as the hottest spot, hitting a staggering 46.5°C, followed by Amravati at 46.4°C and Akola at 46.3°C. Yavatmal recorded 45.4°C, while Nagpur reached 44.4°C, nearly one degree above the seasonal average. Chandrapur and Gondia also faced extreme conditions, with temperatures climbing to 43.8°C in both locations. The weather department warned that no immediate relief is expected, as the heatwave persists. The intense heat has disrupted daily life, exposing vulnerable groups such as laborers, delivery workers, street vendors, and commuters to severe risks. With temperatures forecasted to remain in the 45–46°C range for the coming days, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) activated its "Heat Action Plan 2026" to mitigate health risks. The civic body issued public advisories urging residents to take precautions, including avoiding outdoor activities between noon and 4 p.m., staying hydrated, and prioritizing the safety of children, senior citizens, and pregnant women. NMC medical health officer Dr. Deepak Selokar highlighted the coordination between municipal departments and the health system to manage the crisis. Between March 1 and May 17, over 3.28 lakh outpatient department (OPD) visits and health checks were conducted at civic facilities. Epidemic officer Dr. Govardhan Navkhare reported 76 heat-related cases, including heat rash, exhaustion, cramps, and fainting, though no cases of heatstroke have been recorded so far.#amravati #vidarbha #nagpur_municipal_corporation #akola #wardha

Water Science, Community Conservation Efforts Hold Key To India’s Future: Experts A gathering of Padma awardees and water experts in Nagpur, organized by the Purti Sinchan Samruddhi Kalyankari Sanstha, emphasized the critical role of water science, grassroots participation, and public awareness in addressing India’s water conservation challenges. The event, titled Nagpur Jalsamvad 2026, aimed to explore water conservation as a strategy to combat farmer suicides in Vidarbha, a region plagued by agricultural distress. Participants highlighted the need to move beyond infrastructure projects and focus on systemic understanding of water systems. Padma Bhushan Anil Joshi, a prominent speaker, criticized the superficial approach to water scarcity, urging society to grasp the complexities of water science. He drew parallels between rivers and roads, arguing that understanding natural systems is essential for effective conservation. “Rivers connect places just as roads connect communities,” Joshi stated. “Society must learn from nature to conserve water.” His remarks underscored the importance of integrating ecological knowledge into policy and practice. Keshav Chatradhara, a river and climate expert, proposed introducing water literacy from pre-primary education to higher secondary levels. He also called for establishing a national water community centre to coordinate policy and local planning. Chatradhara warned that communities are increasingly disconnected from groundwater systems, leading to ecological damage even in water-rich areas. He stressed the necessity of reconnecting younger generations with water and nature to secure sustainable solutions.#vidarbha #padma_awardees #purti_sinchan_samruddhi_kalyankari_sanstha #nagpur_jalsamvad_2026 #anil_joshi

Parents Question June 15 Reopening for CBSE Schools in Vidarbha Parents and education groups in Vidarbha are raising concerns about the decision to reopen CBSE schools on June 15, citing adverse weather conditions that pose risks to students' health. The issue gained attention after the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court sought a response from the state government regarding the timing of school reopenings in the region. While the court’s inquiry focused on state-run schools, parents and associations are now pushing for similar scrutiny of CBSE institutions, which have historically opened earlier than other schools in the area. The debate centers on the region’s extreme heat, which has led to delays in school reopenings for non-CBSE institutions in Vidarbha. Schools in the region typically start after June 26 due to the scorching temperatures, which are significantly higher than in areas like Konkan and Pune. However, CBSE schools in Nagpur have traditionally reopened earlier, often before June 15. This year, the state government mandated that all Vidarbha schools, including CBSE institutions, align with the rest of Maharashtra by reopening on June 15. Yogesh Pathare, national coordinator of the Jagruk Palak Samiti, highlighted the long-standing issue, noting that government orders issued in 2009 and 2012 explicitly recommended delaying the reopening of schools in Vidarbha to avoid the harsh summer heat. These directives, he argued, were ignored, placing students at risk of health complications. Pathare emphasized that the climate in Vidarbha is distinct from other parts of Maharashtra, yet the decision to reopen early continues to disregard these conditions.#bombay_high_court #nagpur_bench #vidarbha #jagruk_palak_samiti #csswa

Gadkari to Spearhead Water Conservation Conclave to Combat Farmer Suicides in Vidarbha Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced plans to lead a two-day water conservation conclave in Nagpur on May 17 and 18, aimed at addressing the crisis of farmer suicides in Vidarbha. The event, coinciding with the silver jubilee of the Purti Sinchan Samruddhi Kalyankari Sanstha, will bring together government officials, activists, and celebrities to discuss sustainable solutions for water scarcity, a key driver of agricultural distress in the region. Actor Aamir Khan, representing the Paani Foundation, and actors Nana Patekar and Makarand Anaspure of the Naam Foundation will participate, alongside state ministers and experts. Gadkari emphasized that water conservation is the only viable solution to the ongoing crisis, citing the devastating impact of prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall on farmers. He highlighted that thousands of farmers in Vidarbha have died by suicide over the years due to crop failures and lack of irrigation. “The amount of rainfall is not in our hands, but water conservation certainly is,” he stated during a press briefing. The minister proposed the creation of a water grid or river-linking system to redirect excess floodwater from surplus regions to drought-prone areas, addressing the imbalance between monsoon-fed rivers and parched farmlands. The conclave will feature two main events. The Nagpur Jalsamvad 2026 on May 17 will focus on water conservation strategies, with participation from Padma Bhushan Dr. Anil Prakash Joshi, Padma Shri awardees Umashankar Pandey and Sethpal Singh, and state ministers Ashish Jaiswal and Pankaj Bhoyar.#nitin_gadkari #aamir_khan #vidarbha #purti_sinchan_sanstha #naam_foundation

International Farmers Convention Centre Nears Completion, Set to Boost Agri-Tourism in Vidarbha Construction of the International Farmers Convention Centre in Dabha, Nagpur, is progressing rapidly, with the project now 70% complete and expected to finish ahead of its two-year deadline. The Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC), overseeing the development, confirmed that the facility will be operational before the scheduled completion date. The Rs235.67 crore project, located on land belonging to Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV), aims to establish a first-of-its-kind hub for agricultural events in Vidarbha. The centre, spanning 23 hectares, is designed to serve as a comprehensive venue for agri-related activities, including conventions, exhibitions, and conferences. Currently, work is underway on 10 hectares, with the remaining land reserved for parking and future expansion. The facility will feature a large convention hall, multiple conference rooms, an exhibition center, a food court, business lounges, operational offices, and storage spaces. Dedicated pick-up and drop zones, along with extensive parking facilities—including VIP parking—will support the hosting of large-scale national and international events. The project, a key initiative of Union minister Nitin Gadkari, is positioned to enhance Nagpur’s role as a central hub for agriculture and knowledge in central India. It is expected to significantly benefit farmers in Vidarbha by providing a centralized platform for knowledge exchange, agri-exhibitions, and direct engagement with experts, policymakers, and agri-business companies. Farmers will gain access to the latest technologies, market trends, and government schemes, potentially improving productivity and income.#nitin_gadkari #dr_panjabrao_deshmukh_krishi_vidyapeeth #vidarbha #international_farmers_convention_centre

Bachchu Kadu’s Shiv Sena Entry To Power Shinde’s Vidarbha Push Nagpur: The merger of ex-MLA Bachchu Kadu’s Prahar Janshakti Party with Shiv Sena (Shinde) has been framed as a strategic political alliance that benefits both parties and aligns with deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde’s ambitions to strengthen the party’s presence in Vidarbha. Kadu, who suffered a defeat in the 2024 state elections, is now securing a seat in the Legislative Council, while Shinde gains a prominent figure with a strong grassroots following to challenge the BJP’s dominance in the region. Shiv Sena, despite having MLAs and an MP from Vidarbha, has historically operated as a secondary force to its alliance partner, the BJP. This dynamic has persisted even during the party’s earlier unified phase. Sources suggest that Shinde, feeling pressure from the BJP, is actively pursuing efforts to consolidate existing strongholds and expand into areas traditionally controlled by the BJP. The merger with Kadu’s party is seen as a key step in this strategy. Shiv Sena’s chief spokesperson, Raju Waghmare, emphasized that the party’s expansion efforts are not aimed at undermining the BJP. “Every party has the right to grow, and it is incorrect to assume we are rejecting those who approach us,” Waghmare stated. He highlighted Kadu’s prior support for Shinde during the 2022 revolt, noting that his alignment with the party has not shifted significantly. Kadu’s political reentry coincided with Sena MP Pratap Jadhav assuming the role of Vidarbha’s sampark mantri. A day before Kadu’s alliance announcement, Jadhav convened a critical meeting in Nagpur with Sena officials to discuss broader expansion plans.#vidarbha #shiv_sena #eknath_shinde #bachchu_kadu #pratap_jadhav

Thunderstorms, hail bring relief across Vidarbha A sudden spell of unseasonal rain and hailstorms swept across Vidarbha on Tuesday, offering much-needed relief from the persistent heatwave conditions that had gripped the region for days. The weather shift, marked by light showers, gusty winds, and hail in parts of Gondia, led to a noticeable drop in temperatures, with Nagpur experiencing a decline of 2-3 degrees Celsius over the past 24 hours. Other districts, which had previously recorded temperatures ranging from 40 to 44 degrees Celsius, also saw a marginal cooling effect. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued forecasts predicting thunderstorm activity with lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph in parts of Vidarbha for the next two days. Yellow alerts were raised for nearly all districts in the region, warning residents of potential sudden weather changes. The rainfall and cloud cover provided temporary respite, but the IMD cautioned that this relief is likely to be short-lived. According to IMD officials, the current weather pattern is influenced by an upper air cyclonic circulation over east Madhya Pradesh and a north-south trough spanning central India. These systems have triggered the thunderstorms and localized rainfall in Vidarbha. However, the department warned that temperatures are expected to rise again by 2-4 degrees Celsius in the coming days as the region transitions back to dry conditions. Rainfall activity is projected to diminish significantly after Wednesday, with dry weather dominating most areas. While the immediate impact of the weather change has been positive, the IMD emphasized that the region should prepare for a return to hotter conditions.#nagpur #india_meteorological_department #vidarbha #bhandara #gondia

Bachchu Kadu’s Shift to Shinde-Sena Triggers Backlash From Farm Activists A year after leading a high-profile agitation for a farm loan waiver, Prahar Janshakti leader Bachchu Kadu has faced sharp criticism from fellow activists over his decision to join the Sena faction led by deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde. The move has unsettled many within the farmers’ movement, particularly in Vidarbha, where the loan waiver demand gained significant traction. Kadu, who had emerged as a prominent figure by organizing a three-day blockade of the Nagpur-Delhi-Hyderabad highway, had previously built an independent, secular political base, largely unaffiliated with either the ruling Mahayuti alliance or the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi. His alignment with a party in power has sparked debates about his commitment to the farmers’ cause. Activists involved in last year’s protests have stated that the movement will continue without Kadu, reiterating their demand for a complete loan waiver. They emphasized that the panel headed by chief minister’s economic adviser Praveen Pardesi, which submitted its report, will be closely monitored. “We will wait till June 30 for implementation of the committee’s recommendations. If the government fails, another agitation will be launched,” said leaders associated with the protest. However, the backlash against Kadu has intensified, with social media platforms becoming a hub for criticism. Farmer groups have questioned his political motives, with some accusing him of seeking personal gain. One activist remarked that his decision exposed “how desperate” he was for a legislative council position, while another described him as “a claimant of the chief minister’s post, now desperate for power.” Despite the criticism, some veteran voices have urged a more measured perspective.#vidarbha #eknath_shinde #bachchu_kadu #praveen_pardesi #nagpur_delhi_hyderabad_highway

Maha orders 600 air coolers for Nagpur govt girls hostels Nagpur: After days of mounting complaints from girl students enduring extreme heat in government hostels, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday directed the installation of 600 air coolers in Nagpur facilities and mandated similar arrangements across Vidarbha. The decision is expected to benefit over 1,000 girls residing in government hostels across the city. The move follows a letter dated April 28 from nearly 100 residents of a government girls’ hostel in Besa, where temperatures hovering around 45°C left students struggling without cooling support. The students highlighted that existing policy rules prohibited the installation of coolers, a stance reiterated by hostel authorities and social welfare officials, who cited a lack of provision and funding approval. The students wrote that rising temperatures had caused severe physical distress during exam season, with several developing skin infections linked to prolonged exposure to heat. Officials informed the inmates that rules were framed by bureaucrats in Mumbai without considering Vidarbha’s extreme climate, with no provision for coolers in hostels. The absence of flexibility in the policy effectively blocked any interim relief, despite repeated appeals. A signed petition was forwarded to the chief minister’s office through BJP city president Dayashankar Tiwari, corporator Ritesh Gawande, and member Vaibhav Bawankar. Acting on the representation, the CM directed secretary Asha Pathan and the social welfare department to immediately relax norms and facilitate cooling arrangements.#nagpur #devendra_fadnavis #vidarbha #maharashtra_chief_minister #girls_hostels

Vidarbha Heatwave Sparks Health Alert, Temperatures Soar Past 45°C A severe heatwave gripping the Vidarbha region has triggered urgent health warnings as temperatures in several cities surpassed 45°C, raising concerns about heat-related fatalities and the rising number of unidentified bodies found in Nagpur and Amravati. Officials have emphasized the dangers of prolonged exposure to extreme heat, with medical authorities and municipal administrations urging residents to take preventive measures to avoid dehydration, heatstroke, and other heat-related illnesses. In Amravati, an unidentified body of a senior citizen was discovered at the District General Hospital on Tuesday afternoon. Initial assessments by medical personnel suggested sunstroke as the likely cause of death, marking the first heat-related fatality reported in the district this summer. Dr. Narendra Solanke, the resident medical officer, confirmed that the cause of death would be officially determined through a post-mortem examination. Nagpur police reported the discovery of three additional unidentified bodies between Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures remaining consistently around 44-45°C during that period. While no official confirmations of heatstroke deaths have been made, the surge in unidentified deaths has raised alarms. A 45-year-old man was found unconscious under the Mihan flyover and declared dead at AIIMS-Nagpur on Tuesday evening. Another unidentified man, approximately 65 years old, was found dead at Imambada on Wednesday. A 70-year-old man was also discovered deceased in Sitabuldi on Monday. The heatwave persisted across Vidarbha on Wednesday, with multiple districts recording temperatures exceeding 43°C.#nagpur #amravati #vidarbha #aiims_nagpur #district_general_hospital

Amravati 2nd hottest place in India, heat breaks 30-year-old record in Wardha The Vidarbha region of Maharashtra endured a severe heatwave on Monday, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels. Amravati emerged as the hottest city in the state, recording a maximum of 46.6°C, which placed it as the second hottest place in India after Banda in Uttar Pradesh, where the mercury reached 47.6°C. Wardha, meanwhile, broke a 30-year-old record by hitting 46.5°C, surpassing its previous high of 46.4°C from April 30, 1996. Other districts in the region, including Akola, Yavatmal, and Chandrapur, also experienced extreme heat, with temperatures exceeding 45°C. Nagpur, a major city in the region, recorded 45°C, while Buldhana, Bramhapuri, and Gadchiroli saw temperatures above 43°C. The heatwave intensified on Sunday, with Akola becoming the hottest place in the country at 46.9°C. Amravati, Wardha, and Yavatmal followed closely, with temperatures of 46.8°C, 46.4°C, and 46.0°C respectively. Nagpur also faced intense heat, reaching 45.4°C, its highest temperature of the season. The IMD data highlighted that temperatures across Vidarbha remained significantly above normal, with departures ranging from 2.5°C to over 4°C in multiple districts. Night temperatures, though slightly lower than daytime highs, remained unusually high, contributing to persistent discomfort. Chandrapur recorded a minimum of 29.6°C, Yavatmal 30°C, and Wardha 27.8°C, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents. The IMD issued warnings about continued heatwave conditions in Amravati and Akola for Tuesday, with the possibility of thundershowers at isolated locations. Nagpur, Wardha, Yavatmal, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli were expected to receive rain and thunderstorms on April 29 and 30.#nagpur #imdad #amravati #vidarbha #wardha

Amravati 2nd hottest place in India, heat breaks 30-year-old record in Wardha The Vidarbha region of Maharashtra experienced an unprecedented heatwave on Monday, with Amravati emerging as the hottest city in the state and ranking second in the country. Temperatures in Amravati soared to 46.6°C, surpassing the previous record for the region. Wardha, meanwhile, broke a 30-year-old record by hitting 46.5°C, which is 0.1°C higher than its previous maximum of 46.4°C recorded on April 30, 1996. The extreme heatwave, which has persisted for two consecutive days, has caused widespread discomfort and raised concerns about health risks. According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several districts in Vidarbha, including Akola, Yavatmal, and Chandrapur, also recorded temperatures exceeding 45°C. Akola reached 46.3°C, while Chandrapur and Yavatmal both hit 45.2°C. Nagpur, a major city in the region, remained under intense heat with temperatures at 45°C. Other areas such as Buldhana, Bramhapuri, and Gadchiroli also reported temperatures above 43°C, contributing to the severity of the heatwave. The situation was particularly alarming on Sunday, when Akola became the hottest place in the country at 46.9°C. Amravati, Wardha, and Yavatmal followed closely, with temperatures of 46.8°C, 46.4°C, and 46.0°C respectively. Nagpur recorded its highest temperature of the season at 45.4°C. These extreme readings have placed the region under a heatwave warning, with the IMD advising residents to take precautions to avoid health complications. The heatwave has also impacted the region’s weather patterns. While partial cloud cover and light rainfall at isolated locations provided some relief on Monday, temperatures remained well above normal. IMD data indicates that departures from average temperatures ranged from 2.#maharashtra #india_metropolitan_department #amravati #vidarbha #wardha

Green Rebates Rise, But Barely 1% Of Nagpur Opts In Nagpur: Despite a steady rise in participation, numbers expose a stark reality — of Nagpur's nearly 8.38 lakh properties, only 4,488 have adopted eco-friendly measures under Nagpur Municipal Corporation's (NMC) ecological rebate scheme, keeping adoption below 1% mark across all zones. The gap highlights persistent challenges such as low awareness, high upfront costs and limited enforcement, which continue to restrict wider participation despite tax incentives. The civic body's ecological rebate framework — covering rainwater harvesting systems, rooftop solar installations, vermicomposting/organic waste management, and wastewater recycling and reuse systems — has nevertheless begun to show traction in recent years. Data from property tax (PTAX) department shows that 3,513 properties had availed benefits in FY 2022-23, rising to 3,556 in FY 2024-25, before witnessing a sharp jump to 4,488 in FY 2025-26, marking a year-on-year increase of over 26%. Under the scheme, property owners are offered 5% rebate for adopting a single eco-friendly measure and 10% rebate for implementing multiple systems. These incentives are gradually nudging citizens to invest in sustainable infrastructure, particularly as water scarcity, power tariffs and extreme heat become more pressing concerns. However, the scale of adoption remains disproportionately low when compared with the city's total property base. Zone-wise data further underscores this imbalance. Ashi Nagar, the largest zone with 1,53,445 properties, has only 108 properties under the scheme — less than 0.1%. Nehru Nagar (1,30,205 properties) reports 728 beneficiaries, while Hanuman Nagar (1,11,194) tops in absolute numbers with 973 properties, though still under 1% penetration.#nagpur #vidarbha #nagpur_municipal_corporation #nmc #ecological_rebate_scheme

HUDCO Loan Plan Approved As Maharashtra Sets Timeline For Three Major Vidarbha Expressways The Maharashtra government has approved a proposal to secure funding for land acquisition in three major expressway projects in the Vidarbha region, marking a significant step toward enhancing road connectivity and boosting industrial growth in eastern Maharashtra. The decision was announced during a Cabinet Infrastructure Development Committee meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the Mantralaya, with senior ministers and officials present. The meeting focused on advancing the Nagpur-Gondiya, Bhandara-Gadchiroli, and Nagpur-Chandrapur expressways, which are critical for improving regional mobility and infrastructure development. Fadnavis emphasized the need for timely execution of the projects, directing the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation to establish a clear "project implementation schedule." This includes setting specific timelines for tender announcements, bid finalization, and overall project completion. The Chief Minister also instructed the finance department to expedite the proposal for funding from the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO), ensuring the plan is processed urgently to meet the strategic goals of the region. The three expressways are part of a broader initiative to strengthen transportation networks in Vidarbha, a region historically underserved in terms of infrastructure. The Nagpur-Gondiya corridor, spanning 162.57 km, is projected to cost Rs 19,582.19 crore, with land acquisition expenses exceeding Rs 3,100 crore. The Bhandara-Gadchiroli project, covering 94.24 km, requires approximately Rs 931 crore for land acquisition, while the Nagpur-Chandrapur expressway, stretching 204.#maharashtra_government #devendra_fadnavis #vidarbha #hudco #maharashtra_state_road_development_corporation