The Chembarambakkam reservoir has reached its full storage level of 24 feet after nearly three decades, leading to severe flooding in nearby residential areas, particularly Nandambakkam. The reservoir now holds about 3,645 million cubic feet of water, and the rise in water level has left several neighbourhoods inundated.
More than 100 houses in Ambedkar Nagar are reported to be marooned, with many homes partially submerged. Residents have been forced to evacuate and take shelter with relatives or in a nearby mosque. With access roads completely waterlogged, the locality now resembles an isolated island, making movement and relief efforts difficult.
Residents expressed shock over the extent of flooding, saying such a situation is rare because surplus water is usually released gradually. They blame the decision to retain water at full capacity for the crisis, which has disrupted daily life and raised health concerns due to stagnant water and garbage accumulation.
A Water Resources Department official said the affected areas fall under encroachments and confirmed that the water level is currently being maintained. However, residents continue to demand urgent relief measures and a long-term solution to prevent such incidents in future.