Chennai Prepares for Monsoon: GCC Implements Measures to Tackle Flooding!
As the northeast monsoon approaches, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is set to begin monsoon-preparation work and issue public alerts starting mid-September. Around 4,000 roads have been identified as low-lying areas based on data from the last four floods. Despite existing stormwater drains (SWDs), water stagnation is expected, prompting intensified measures.
GCC Commissioner J Kumaragurubaran stated that if Chennai receives 10-12 cm of rain, it is manageable. However, if it reaches 20 cm in 24 hours or 40 cm in two days, relief operations will be necessary. The Corporation plans to link SWDs or install motor pumps to address water stagnation. Construction of SWDs, funded by the Asian Development Bank, is nearly complete, while a KfW-funded project will take another year.
Preparations include installing motor pumps in low-lying areas, setting up relief centers, and equipping 388 Amma Canteens and 35 cluster kitchens to provide food. The GCC will also increase manpower at the complaint cell and Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC). Kumaragurubaran emphasized that residents should stock sufficient food and be prepared for potential water stagnation.
