Fri Nov 22 19:13:53 UTC 2024: ## Chennai Awaits JICA’s Flood Control Master Plan
**Chennai, November 23, 2024** – A comprehensive flood control master plan for Chennai, developed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is nearing completion. The final report, expected within a week, will outline short-term and long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of flooding in the city and its surrounding areas.
The plan addresses the challenges posed by erratic monsoons and rapid urbanization in river basins such as Kosasthalaiyar and Adyar. Recommendations include increasing river carrying capacity, creating upstream water storage, and constructing additional drainage channels in areas like Buckingham Canal. The plan also incorporates strategies for managing coastal erosion and improving drainage systems.
JICA’s study involved extensive surveys, environmental and social impact assessments, and model studies. The final report will include proposals for climate change adaptation, underground storage facilities, and updated land use and building regulations to reduce flood risk. It will also recommend augmenting the storage capacity of water bodies to control flash floods and outline immediate disaster response measures.
The project is expected to receive funding assistance from JICA. Implementation will involve various government agencies, including the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority and the Greater Chennai Corporation. The master plan represents a significant step towards improving Chennai’s resilience to flooding.
First Piper 