Chennai, Oct 19:
The Greater Chennai Corporation has intensified rainwater clearance and flood-mitigation operations following the extreme rainfall that inundated several parts of the city over the weekend. More than 15,000 civic personnel were deployed through the night as officials worked to clear roads, subways and residential streets affected by the downpour.
Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay visited the Corporation headquarters at Ripon Buildings on Sunday to review the situation and monitor the flood-control room. Officials informed him that Chennai had recorded an average rainfall of around 11 cm, while Parrys received 36.34 cm during the intense spell. The Corporation has identified 219 flood-prone locations and deployed 1,189 pieces of equipment for emergency response and mitigation.
The civic body has kept 217 relief centres ready for residents who may need shelter. Five centres had been opened in advance for people living in old and dilapidated buildings. Officials also reviewed the deployment of pumps and other equipment to remove accumulated water from low-lying neighbourhoods.
Waterlogging was reported in areas including AGS Colony and Ram Nagar in Velachery, Ganesapuram in Vyasarpadi, Pattalam in Pulianthope, parts of Parrys and sections of Nungambakkam. While water had receded from several locations by Sunday morning, some areas continued to face stagnation. The subway near Ganesapuram remained affected, disrupting traffic and making movement difficult.
The Corporation said teams had been working to clear stormwater drains, canals and catch pits, while pumps were being used in areas where water remained. Disaster-response personnel were also mobilised, with inflatable boats and additional teams kept ready for rescue operations if required.
The latest spell has renewed concerns about Chennai’s ability to cope with extremely heavy rain concentrated within a few hours. With further showers forecast, officials have been asked to remain alert and respond quickly to complaints from residents. The effectiveness of drainage infrastructure and the speed of water clearance will remain crucial as the monsoon progresses.