Act Swiftly to prevent monsoon flooding, Ramadoss tells govt

PMK founder S. Ramadoss has called on the Tamil Nadu government to immediately implement precautionary measures to protect Chennai residents from the threat of severe flooding during the monsoon season. In a statement, the senior leader noted that despite Chennai’s 375-year history, skilled population, expanding infrastructure, and economic significance, the city continues to grapple with recurring water scarcity in summer and flooding during rains. He said the failure to build adequate stormwater drains, restore water bodies, and establish rainwater storage structures has left the metropolis highly vulnerable. Recalling past instances when even moderate rainfall brought the city to a standstill, Ramadoss warned that similar conditions could occur again. His remarks follow weather forecasts predicting heavy rain around December 11 and 12, posing risks to Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts. He urged authorities to prioritise desilting of small stormwater and sewage drains, remove encroachments on lakes and waterways, and ensure coordinated action by disaster management teams, fire and rescue services, the revenue department, and the Greater Chennai Corporation. Ramadoss also emphasised the need for well-equipped relief camps, sufficient medicines, strengthened medical infrastructure, and preparedness of health workers to handle emergencies. @@