  The thermodynamics of the $q$-state Potts model with arbitrary $q$ on a class
of hierarchical lattices is considered. Contrary to the case of the crystal
lattices, it has always the second-order phase transitions. The analytical
expressions fo the critical indexes are obtained, their dependencies on the
structural lattice pararmeters are studied and the scailing relations among
them are establised. The structural criterion of the inhomogeneity-induced
transformation of the transition order is suggested. The application of the
results to a description of critical phenomena in the dilute crystals and
substances confined in porous media is discussed.
