Tue Nov 12 15:50:20 UTC 2024: ## Chennai Prepares for Heavy Rains as Government Steps Up Flood Mitigation Efforts
**Chennai, November 12, 2024:** The Tamil Nadu government has initiated a series of measures to prevent flooding in Chennai, as the city braces for heavy rainfall over the next four days. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who inspected flood preparedness measures on Tuesday, announced the acquisition of private land for widening waterways and implementing flood mitigation projects.
The government has taken particular focus on the Okkiyam Maduvu, a major drainage channel, which has been identified as a bottleneck in the city’s flood management system. Land has been acquired from a private educational institution to widen the channel from 80 meters to 130 meters, increasing its water carrying capacity from 7,000 cusecs to 12,000 cusecs.
Mr. Stalin also highlighted the city’s preparedness, stating that 1,194 pumps, 524 jet-rodding machines, and 158 super-sucker machines have been deployed for drainage operations. This represents a 21% increase in flood preparedness machinery compared to October.
The city’s Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) is actively monitoring rainfall and suggesting additional measures, including the installation of more pumps. The Chennai Corporation has also established 329 relief centers and 120 kitchens for flood-affected residents.
While the city has received significant rainfall in the past 24 hours, the GCC has managed to maintain the functionality of all subways except the Ganesapuram subway, which is currently closed for bridge construction work.
Mr. Stalin further stressed the importance of desilting canals and the proactive response of GCC employees, who are working to address civic issues reported on social media. He also emphasized the city’s improved rainwater harvesting infrastructure.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s visit comes as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rainfall in Chennai and surrounding districts over the next few days. The GCC is actively taking precautionary measures in flood-prone areas and has received over 150 rain-related complaints on Tuesday.
In addition to flood mitigation efforts, Mr. Stalin also chaired a meeting at the Secretariat to review the progress of the Cine City project in Poonamallee.
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