Mon Oct 14 12:22:24 UTC 2024: ## Chennai Prepares for Heavy Rains as Minister Inspects Drainage Systems
**Chennai, October 14, 2024:** With heavy rains predicted for the coming days, Tamil Nadu Minister for Municipal Administration, K.N. Nehru, visited Chennai on Monday to assess the city’s monsoon preparedness. Accompanied by Chennai Mayor R. Priya and other officials, he inspected stormwater drain construction work in the Tondiarpet Zone.
The Minister assured the public that while normal rainfall typically drains within an hour, the city is prepared to handle up to 40 cm of rainfall in two hours, as forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for October 16 and 17.
“We have taken steps to mitigate potential flooding, especially in vulnerable areas,” said Mr. Nehru. These measures include deploying additional motors, tree pruning equipment, and setting up over 160 relief centers stocked with essentials like milk and biscuits. In areas severely affected, food distribution will be centralized.
The Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) has also deployed 990 pumps, including submersible motors with sufficient diesel supply, to address waterlogging. Special monitoring is underway in subways and other critical areas, with officials on standby to address any reported issues.
Mr. Nehru confirmed the completion of 765 km of stormwater drain (SWD) construction planned last year. However, 1,156 km of work remains ongoing, despite an earlier deadline of October 10.
Further preparedness measures include desilting the Otteri Nullah and Retteri, removing water hyacinths from the Cooum and Buckingham canals, and deploying motors and pumps in low-lying areas. The Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) has also been instructed to implement safety measures, including placing barricades near potential risk zones.
The Minister’s inspection comes ahead of the expected heavy rains, ensuring Chennai is well-equipped to handle the potential for flooding and ensuring the safety of its residents.
First Piper 