Chennai’s lifeline, the Chembarambakkam Lake, has seen its water level rise rapidly due to the active Northeast Monsoon, reaching 20.20 feet against its full capacity of 24 feet.
Officials from the Public Works Department warn that once the water hits 22 feet, surplus water will likely be released to prevent overflow.
Currently, inflows total about 796 cusecs, split almost evenly between the Krishna River and direct rainfall. The reservoir’s storage stands at 2,653 million cubic feet.With increasing inflows from the Sriperumbudur and Nemam lakes, which also feed Chembarambakkam, water levels could swell further.
Authorities express concern over potential flooding along low-lying regions by the Adyar River, including Chennai city suburbs like Saidapet. Residents are urged to stay alert as the Water Resources Department continues close monitoring during this period of heightened precipitation.