Hyderabad beats Delhi in population density: A double-edged sword for growth and infrastructure

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Hyderabad has outpaced even Delhi in population density, positioning itself as a leader among India's urban centers. According to the Telangana Statistical Abstract (ATLAS)-2024, the city now boasts a population density of 18,161 people per square kilometre. This is notably higher than Delhi's 11,313 people per square kilometre, despite the latter's reputation for overcrowding.

Hyderabad’s increasing population density is driven by its booming tech sector, which attracts professionals, entrepreneurs, and students alike. The city’s cultural and historical significance further adds to its magnetic pull, making it one of the country’s most sought-after locations for relocation.

However, despite this rapid growth, Hyderabad still falls behind other global cities in density. Manila in the Philippines leads the world with 43,079 people per square kilometre, while Mumbai holds the Indian record at 28,508 people per square kilometre. However, the fast-paced urbanisation of Hyderabad is unmistakable.

While Hyderabad’s growth is a sign of its vibrancy and urban appeal, it also presents unique challenges for urban planners and city administrators. While growth brings economic vitality and opportunities, it also strains infrastructure, public services, and housing availability. The swelling population is creating significant pressure on Hyderabad's ability to accommodate the rising demand for resources and services. As more people flock to the city, its existing systems are increasingly challenged to keep up with the pace of change.

The ATLAS-2024 report, which is based on 2011 census data, also paints a picture of the state’s broader population distribution. Telangana’s total population stands at 3.5 crore, spread over an area of 1,12,077 square kilometers. This gives the state a relatively low population density of 312 people per square kilometre, far behind more densely populated states like Bihar and West Bengal. This contrast highlights the concentrated urbanisation in Hyderabad, while much of the rest of Telangana remains sparsely populated.

Telangana’s population is projected to reach 3.92 crore by 2031, with a slight decline in its share of the national population—from 2.77% in 2021 to 2.66% in 2031. This demographic shift signals potential long-term challenges, particularly as the younger population continues to shrink. The number of children under five years old is expected to fall by 25% during this period, while the population of people over 60 is set to increase by more than 60%. These changes could have profound social, economic, and political implications.

In addition to these trends, a recent caste survey by the state’s planning department indicates that Telangana’s population stands at 3.5 crore, though around 16 lakh individuals were unaccounted for. The state’s Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes populations are estimated to number 54.09 lakh (15.5%) and 31.77 lakh (9.1%), respectively, according to ATLAS-2024 projections.