In a significant step toward flood mitigation, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will commence maintenance work on three major canals—Veerangal Odai, Virugambakkam Canal, and Otteri Nullah. This decision follows a government order transferring these canals from the Water Resources Department to the Corporation, aimed at addressing the growing flood-related issues in key areas of the city. For years, residents in vulnerable zones such as Virugambakkam have raised concerns about recurring overflows during heavy rains, particularly near obstructions under bridges.
Experts in water resource management have highlighted the necessity of restoring and widening these canals. Areas prone to flooding, such as Velachery, Puzhuthivakkam, Arumbakkam, Saligramam, Koyambedu, and Anna Nagar, are expected to benefit from these measures. However, the Virugambakkam-Arumbakkam canal, being beyond the tidal range, poses a unique challenge due to its reduced width, limiting the volume of water discharge during floods. Officials have proposed constructing a loop canal in the form of a tunnel to allow for higher water discharge in this area, connecting to the sewage treatment plant (STP) in Koyambedu.
Veerangal Odai, an artificial canal designed to drain southern Chennai, also lies within the tidal range. This complicates flood mitigation efforts as pumping arrangements will be necessary to manage water flow. Otteri Nullah faces a similar issue, with tidal range effects stretching up to the Stephenson Bridge. Civic authorities are expected to construct another loop canal to enhance drainage beyond the tidal range while implementing necessary pumping systems within.
These efforts are expected to significantly reduce the flooding risk in densely populated areas while supporting sustainable water management infrastructure. The current canal structures, often obstructed by metrowater pipelines and undersized bridges, need modern upgrades to align with the city’s growing urban demands and future resilience against flooding. Sustainable flood management requires not only structural repairs but also long-term planning for urban infrastructure. By creating loop canals and implementing pumping systems, the GCC is working towards a more resilient water management system. Ensuring proper drainage can mitigate the environmental impact of flooding, reducing water contamination and the spread of diseases.
