Municipal Administration and Water Supply Minister KN Nehru announced on Monday that 95% of the desilting work on storm water drains (SWD) in Chennai has been completed. The remaining work is expected to be finished within the next 15 days. This update was provided during a review meeting on the ongoing development projects across the city, conducted in preparation for the upcoming northeast monsoon.Minister Nehru emphasized the need to accelerate various developmental works, including desilting storm water drains, clearing water bodies, and re-laying damaged roads, all within the stipulated time frame. The meeting also revealed that 70 to 80% of the integrated storm water drain construction in the Kosasthalaiyar River area has been completed.
Authorities have been instructed to inspect and repair damaged roads, ensuring they are re-laid or patched before the onset of the monsoon. Additionally, safety measures are to be implemented around ditches dug for underground sewage and drinking water projects. Upon completion of these projects, patchwork on potholes and removal of excess soil will be conducted.
Minister Nehru also stressed the importance of uninterrupted drinking water supply during the monsoon season. He directed the Chennai Metro Water Board to ensure a consistent supply of drinking water to residents in the Tambaram and Avadi corporations. This includes daily monitoring of water distribution, cleaning storage tanks, and periodic inspection and maintenance of electric motors, valves, and transformers. The cleaning dates of water tanks and the schedule for the next cleaning should be clearly visible on each tank.
The minister urged that all development projects, including drinking water and underground sewerage projects within local body limits, be completed as soon as possible to improve the cityâs infrastructure and ensure preparedness for the monsoon.