Bhadradri Kothagudem (భద్రాద్రి కొత్తగూడెం) is a district in eastern Telangana, India, with its administrative headquarters at Kothagudem. Known for its forests, coalfields and the Godavari River, it includes Bhadrachalam, an important pilgrimage town associated with the Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple.
The district brings together industrial towns, farming villages and Adivasi communities, including the Koya. Telugu is widely spoken, alongside tribal languages. Coal mining through the Singareni Collieries, power generation, agriculture and forest-based livelihoods shape its economy. Temple festivals, especially Sri Rama Navami celebrations at Bhadrachalam, draw visitors and contribute to local commerce. The region’s wooded landscapes and riverfront are also central to its identity.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, road connectivity, healthcare and education in remote settlements. Residents also face questions around mining-related pollution, employment, land and forest rights, and access to public services. Godavari flooding makes preparedness, drainage and timely relief important priorities for vulnerable communities.