Chennai: With monsoon failing last time, one would expect residents to be gutted due to the fact that come summer, they would have to struggle for water. However, truth be told, Madipakkam residents heaved a sign of relief for the neighbourhood was not flooded last time around.
With water crisis looming at large, neighbourhood residents expect good rains to come this year and the recent announcement of the Kancheepuram District Collector M Ponniah sealed the deal for them.
Speaking at an event held in the neighbourhood last Sunday, the Collector said, “Madipakkam, one of the flood-prone areas in Chennai, will not get flooded this year. Efforts have been taken to avoid flooding even if heavy showers lash the area. The foremost reason for flooding is encroachments and uneven SWDs. With the help of authorities, we have cleared encroachments blocking rainwater from entering SWD’s and canals linked to water bodies in Keelkattalai, Nanmangalam, Kovilambakkam and Madipakkam. Flood mitigation projects were also on-board to avert all possibilities of flooding.”
The event was organised by Madipakkam Social Service trust on 28 April to celebrate their 100th week of community service. State Highways Department officer Santhanam, environmental activist Treebank Mullaivanam were present, among resident welfare association members.
“The world is in danger as global warming is increasing every day. More saplings should be planted to reduce global warming. I know, Madipakkam has more demand for land. But at least each resident can plant a sapling in their terrace, garden and OSR land to reduce risks of global warming. Like MSS, more NGOs and volunteers should come together and work for a cause. From the government side, with help from the forest department, we are planting saplings and desilting waterbodies to preserve the environment,” said the Collector.
Speaking at the event, Mullaivanam said, “I am glad to be part of the event. The NGO has been doing meritorious work. But I am a bit concerned about the safety of the people involved in the activities. Not everyone wears gloves or safety equipment. But, it has to be used. Other than that, I want them to continue their works and make the neighbourhood greener still.”
Following him spoke the State highways department officer, Santhanam. He congratulated the people involved and assured that the Highways Department will be with people who want the neighbourhood to be green.
He said, “The State Highways Department has been taking various measures to make the roads green and clean. We want everyone to join hands with the department to achieve the goal.”
The event concluded with the release of a postal stamp featuring the activities of MSS trust in Madipakkam.