Chennai’s Sports Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, has taken proactive measures to ensure the city’s preparedness for the impending North-East monsoon. Chairing the second high-level meeting on Tuesday, Stalin directed Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) officials and councillors to engage actively with residents’ welfare associations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). This engagement aims to identify and address local monsoon-related issues effectively.
Stalin emphasised the importance of fieldwork by officials and councillors, given their direct interaction with the community. He stressed that it is crucial for these officials to work closely with local entities to understand and mitigate potential monsoon impacts. “Meeting with residents’ associations is essential as they can provide invaluable insights into local challenges,” Stalin noted. In his address, Stalin underscored that no compromises should be made regarding the maintenance of sewage systems. He highlighted the necessity of removing obstructions between manholes and ensuring the deployment of appropriate machinery. He urged officials to utilise funds from councillors or MLAs if required, stating, “Residents will not accept excuses about insufficient funds for emergency measures.”
Addressing potential disruptions during floods, Stalin criticised the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO) for the inadequate elevation of transformers and junction boxes. He instructed TANGEDCO to raise all their equipment by at least three feet above road level and address issues with low-lying transformers and electric poles. Further directives included a call to the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) to transfer responsibility for road re-laying to GCC before the monsoon. Stalin also mandated inspections of ongoing metro rail projects and the use of barricades during roadworks to ensure public safety.
Stalin’s strategy also involves bolstering resources, such as bringing in motor pumps from other states to manage water stagnation. He called for the establishment of rescue centres stocked with essential supplies like clean water, milk, and mattresses. Regular contact with residents’ associations both before and during the monsoon is also mandated to ensure effective communication and response. According to GCC officials, the city is equipped with 169 relief centres, 1,183 motor pumps, seven sewage super suckers, and other essential equipment. Furthermore, 52 accommodations have been arranged for National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams, with 101 medical camps and 1,000 workers prepared across 200 wards. The meeting also highlighted the need to clear all 42 railway canals, equip 22 subways with motors, and ensure the GCC’s 24×7 control room is operational throughout the monsoon season.
