Thu Jun 19 20:50:46 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Chennai’s Water Resources Department (WRD) has initiated pre-monsoon cleaning of waterways earlier than usual, with a budget of ₹38 crore for 195 projects in Chennai and Cuddalore. The focus is on desilting vulnerable portions of waterways like the Cooum, Buckingham Canal, and Adyar River, addressing debris and vegetation. Residents are welcoming the effort but emphasize the need for continuous maintenance, waste management, and prevention of sewage inflow into the waterways. They propose measures like trash boom barriers and stringent monitoring of contractors. The cleaning operations are expected to continue until the end of the year, covering various water bodies and addressing issues like garbage piles and encroachments.
**News Article:**
**Chennai Waterways Undergo Early Pre-Monsoon Cleanup**
CHENNAI, June 20, 2025 – In an effort to prevent flooding and improve water flow, the Water Resources Department (WRD) has commenced pre-monsoon cleanup operations in Chennai’s major waterways well ahead of the traditional August deadline. A substantial budget of ₹38 crore has been allocated for 195 projects aimed at desilting and clearing vegetation from waterways throughout Chennai and Cuddalore district.
The cleanup targets vulnerable sections of critical waterways, including the Cooum, Buckingham Canal, and Adyar River. Officials stated that machinery is being deployed to address debris and vegetation buildup, ensuring smoother water flow during the current Southwest monsoon season.
While residents applaud the early start, they are urging for a more comprehensive and sustained approach to waterway maintenance. Concerns have been raised regarding continuous waste disposal and the inflow of sewage into the canals. Suggestions include the installation of trash boom barriers to trap waste and the implementation of stricter monitoring of contractors involved in the cleanup process.
“North Buckingham Canal gets covered with thick vegetation within a few weeks after the clean-up exercise,” said R. Loganathan, a resident of R.K. Nagar. “Unless sewage joining the canal from minor waterways and storm-water drains is arrested, such exercises will have low impact.”
The WRD has announced that the cleaning operations, which include the removal of sand bars in estuaries and addressing garbage piles along riverbanks, will continue until the end of the year. Significant water bodies such as Porur lake and the Adyar River near Manapakkam are also included in the effort.
In Perumbakkam, local authorities have implemented measures, including warning signs and vehicle seizures, to deter illegal dumping of waste into the Buckingham Canal. The success of these efforts hinges on coordinated action from various government agencies and the cooperation of local residents.
First Piper 