As heavy rainfall continued to batter Chennai on December 12, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) stepped up its flood mitigation operations across the city, offering vital relief to thousands of residents. By the evening, relief efforts had assisted 2,149 individuals, according to data released by the GCC. The city recorded an average of 4.956 cm of rain between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., contributing to the cumulative rainfall of 89.135 cm since the onset of the monsoon season on October 1. The relentless rains have caused significant disruptions, particularly in low-lying areas, where key roads such as Tidel Park Road and Kotturpuram Bridge Road remain inundated, hampering daily movement.
The GCC’s swift response includes deploying a range of flood control equipment to minimise the impact of the downpour. The corporation has activated 1,686 motor pumps, 137 high-power pumps, and 484 generators to pump out water and restore accessibility. In addition, 361 relief centres are offering shelter, food, and essential supplies to affected residents. Between October 15 and December 12, a total of 4,014 relief camps have supported more than 2,06,972 people, with 53 camps continuing operations on Thursday to assist 1,834 residents. This shows a well-coordinated effort to provide both immediate relief and long-term support for the city’s vulnerable population.
However, while these relief operations are crucial, the persistent rainfall and the city’s drainage system’s inadequacy remain pressing issues. Since October 1, 417 fallen trees have been cleared, eight of them on December 12 alone. In total, the GCC has resolved over 52,000 complaints registered via its 1,913 helpline, highlighting the urgency and scale of the challenges faced by the city’s infrastructure. These ongoing struggles underscore the need for comprehensive urban planning and a more resilient infrastructure to handle such weather events.
From a sustainability perspective, these incidents call attention to the city’s need for improved stormwater management systems. Climate change has amplified the frequency and intensity of rainfall, and cities like Chennai must invest in sustainable solutions such as green infrastructure, floodwater retention systems, and better urban design to ensure resilience against future climate shocks. While the GCC’s efforts provide immediate relief, addressing the root causes of flooding will be essential for building a climate-resilient Chennai.
