Chennai’s monsoon preparedness received an on-ground review on Friday as TVK Ministers Aadhav Arjuna and T Lokesh Tamilselvan inspected storm-water drain works, canal desilting and flood-prevention measures across north and south Chennai, directing officials to expedite pending work and keep rainwater flowing without obstruction.
Public Works Minister Aadhav Arjuna inspected flood-prevention measures along the 200-foot Radial Road near Pallikaranai marshland. The review focused on the movement of rainwater from the marshland through 16 small channels maintained by the Highways Department.
The channels are part of the drainage network around one of Chennai’s important wetland areas, where blocked or restricted water paths can contribute to stagnation during heavy rain. The minister’s inspection covered whether the channels were able to carry water without obstruction as the northeast monsoon brought rain across the city.
Commercial Taxes Minister Lokesh Tamilselvan reviewed ongoing storm-water drain works on AA Road and at the Ganeshapuram subway in Otteri. He also inspected arrangements to pump out rainwater from collection sumps at Vyasarpadi Junction and Mullai Nagar, locations where pumping capacity is important when rainwater accumulates faster than it can drain naturally.
Tamilselvan further inspected flood-prevention works in Captain Cotton Canal and Kodungaiyur South Canal. The review centred on maintaining the free flow of rainwater through the canals and completing pending works during the monsoon period.
The inspections came amid concerns over water stagnation in low-lying areas during heavy rain. The Greater Chennai Corporation said flood-relief centres and community kitchens had been kept ready with the required facilities. The civic body also said motor pumps were being installed to drain water from low-lying areas.
The response highlights the multiple agencies involved in Chennai’s flood preparedness. The Highways Department maintains the 16 channels near Pallikaranai marshland, while the Greater Chennai Corporation is responsible for local response arrangements, including relief centres, kitchens and pumping operations. Canal and storm-water drain works also require coordination across departments because water must move through connected networks rather than isolated stretches.
Earlier, Arjuna inaugurated a badminton indoor stadium in Jalladianpet, Perungudi. The facility was built at a cost of Rs 1.20 crore and has a floor area of 81.74 square metres, along with an outdoor gym.
The ministers’ inspections are expected to be followed by the completion of pending storm-water drain, canal and pumping works, with officials directed to ensure that rainwater flows without obstruction during the ongoing northeast monsoon.
