In preparation for the upcoming northeast monsoon, civic agencies in Chennai are accelerating infrastructure projects in flood-prone areas. The initiative follows a meeting chaired by HR&CE and CMDA Minister, who emphasised the urgency of mitigating water stagnation in vulnerable regions, including Kolathur.
The Minister outlined the expeditious completion of critical projects, such as the establishment of EB sub-stations, the construction of storm-water drains, and the enhancement of Metrowater pipelines. In addition, the construction and renovation of schools and bus stands are being prioritised. Specifically, eight bus stands in locations like Mullai Nagar, R.K. Nagar, Ambattur, T. Nagar, and Thiru. Vi. Ka. Nagar are set to see swift progress.
A total of nine schools in these flood-prone areas will receive infrastructure upgrades. These improvements will not only enhance educational facilities but also repurpose the buildings as relief centres during the monsoon season. This dual-purpose approach aims to provide safe havens for residents affected by flooding, ensuring better preparedness and response. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) oversees 420 schools, with several situated in areas prone to waterlogging. In previous monsoons, these schools and their adjacent playgrounds have suffered from extensive water stagnation. As part of the flood mitigation efforts, civic agencies have been instructed to prioritise projects that address these challenges, particularly those that may remain incomplete as the monsoon season approaches.
To prevent flooding at Metro Rail construction sites, the Minister mandated the resolution of ongoing civic issues. A significant focus will be on storm-water drain projects, including a 1 km stretch on Peravallur Road, which is slated for expedited completion before the onset of heavy rains. Furthermore, Metrowater projects aimed at expanding pipeline dimensions from 4 inches to 9 inches are under scrutiny. The directive is to restore each stretch of completed work before proceeding to the next, thereby minimising disruptions and potential flood risks at construction sites.
In a separate inspection, the GCC Mayor reviewed the flood mitigation work at Veerangal Odai. The Mayor emphasised the need for expedited efforts to prevent flooding in the southern parts of the city, including AGS Colony. The inspection underscored the city’s commitment to improving infrastructure and safeguarding its residents from the adverse effects of seasonal monsoons. These measures reflect a concerted effort by the city’s administration to bolster its flood defences and infrastructure, ensuring a safer and more resilient urban environment for Chennai’s residents.
