Sun Jun 22 18:05:11 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Chennai is facing an increased risk of flooding due to damaged silt catch pits. Years of neglect and heavy vehicle traffic have left many pits irreparable, posing a safety hazard. While the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has begun cleaning efforts, a significant number of pits are too damaged to be effectively cleaned. Residents are demanding repairs and regular maintenance. The GCC plans to ramp up cleaning efforts with additional machinery and implement mechanical cleaning of storm water drains. Experts are urging the GCC to create a damage management plan, conduct public awareness campaigns, and enforce accountability to prevent future issues.

**News Article:**

**Chennai Faces Flood Risk as Damaged Silt Catch Pits Plague City**

CHENNAI, June 22, 2025 – Chennai residents are bracing for potential flooding after years of neglect have resulted in irreparable damage to silt catch pits across the city. The damaged pits, crucial for drainage during heavy rainfall, pose a significant threat to pedestrian safety and infrastructure.

“Many silt catch pits have been irreparably damaged due to heavy vehicle movement and also as they have remained clogged for many years.” said T.V. Shemmozhi, Ward 104 councillor. He added that residents have demanded restoration of the damaged silt catch pits. They have demanded maintenance every three months.

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has initiated mechanical cleaning of catch pits, with over 54,000 out of 1.07 lakh silt catch pits cleaned in the past two weeks. However, officials acknowledge that a substantial portion are beyond repair.

To address the issue, the GCC plans to deploy six additional cleaning machines from Mumbai, commencing mechanical cleaning of storm water drains on July 1st. “Each GCC region will get two machines, and the number will be increased in a few weeks,” an official said.

Experts like K.P. Subramanian, former professor of Urban Engineering in Anna University, are calling for a comprehensive damage management plan. This includes identifying and mapping damaged pits using GPS, securing hazardous areas, and prioritizing urgent replacements. Subramanian also emphasized the importance of public awareness campaigns and accountability measures to prevent future neglect and damage.

“The GCC can prepare a strategic damage management plan to repair the silt catch pits. Make an inventory of the damage by locating it using GPS and photographing.” said Subramanian. He added that urgent action to replace the damaged catch pits and quality checks for free flow thereafter must be prioritized.

With the monsoon season approaching, residents are anxiously awaiting the GCC’s efforts to mitigate the flood risk and ensure the safety of the city.

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