The onset of the Northeast monsoon has already started causing trouble in Chennai, with just a couple of hours of rain leading to severe water-logging in several key areas. Kathipara Junction, along with the road leading to Ashok Nagar, KK Nagar, and the Guindy Industrial Estate, has been submerged, causing major inconveniences to commuters and local residents.
Two-wheeler riders and office-goers, in particular, were left grappling with the situation as knee-deep water made it difficult to navigate through the roads. “I was stuck in traffic for almost an hour, trying to cross the Kathipara flyover. The water is just not draining, and it’s the same story every year,” said Suresh, an IT professional who works in the Guindy Industrial Estate.
Several office-goers reported being late to work due to the water-logging. “I left my house early, expecting a smooth ride, but within minutes, I was caught in knee-deep water. It’s frustrating that the city is still not prepared for even a couple of hours of rain,” said Anitha, who commutes to her office in Ashok Nagar.
The situation has not only affected commuters but also local residents and businesses in the industrial estate area. Prakash, a shop owner in Ashok Nagar, shared his concerns: “Last year, we had the same problem, and nothing has been done to fix it. Every time it rains, the streets flood, and our businesses suffer.”
Two-wheeler riders are among the worst hit, as many struggled to maneuver through the water-logged roads. “It’s like riding through a river. My bike stalled twice because the water was too high. They should have fixed this after the last monsoon,” said Aravind, a delivery agent who works in KK Nagar.
Many residents and commuters expressed frustration, citing that no effective measures were taken after last year’s heavy rains, which had caused similar issues. “There were promises of better drainage systems, but here we are again, facing the same problems. How long will we have to deal with this every monsoon?” asked Umesh, a resident of Ashok Nagar.
With more rain expected in the coming days, citizens are concerned about the worsening situation if the water-logging is not promptly addressed. The Greater Chennai Corporation has been alerted to the issue, but many feel that the city’s infrastructure is still not equipped to handle even moderate rainfall.