Sun Oct 26 16:28:27 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the provided text followed by a news article version:
Summary:
The Tiruvannamalai Corporation in India is undertaking extensive measures to prevent flooding during the upcoming Northeast monsoon season. These measures focus on clearing and improving natural streams (‘Odai’) flowing from Arunachala Hills near the Arunachaleeswara Temple. The work includes desilting existing drains, constructing new drainage systems, and building retaining walls to prevent landslides. The local Collector is overseeing the project, spurred by a deadly landslide last year. The goal is to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater into irrigation tanks and ultimately the Then Pennai river, protecting the town from inundation.
News Article:
Tiruvannamalai Prepares for Monsoon Season with Extensive Flood Prevention Measures
Tiruvannamalai, India – October 26, 2025 – In anticipation of the upcoming Northeast monsoon season, the Tiruvannamalai Corporation has launched a comprehensive initiative to mitigate potential flooding in the temple town. The project focuses on clearing and improving the network of natural streams, locally known as ‘Odai,’ that flow from Arunachala Hills near the Arunachaleeswara Temple.
The initiative includes the clearing of 14 natural streams to ensure the free flow of rainwater. “Regular inspection of streams in the hills is being done to identify any blockage that could prevent the free flow of rainwater downstream,” stated S. Ravi, Assistant Engineer, Tiruvannamalai Corporation. “New drains are also being built to connect the streams with nearby irrigation tanks.”
This year’s efforts are particularly focused on preventing landslides after a tragic incident on December 1, 2024, where seven people lost their lives in a landslide within the hills. Collector K. Tharpagaraj has personally inspected the foothills and directed officials to implement preventative measures. The Highways Department has already constructed retaining walls in vulnerable areas.
The Corporation is desilting existing drains connected to the streams and constructing new ones, particularly in the Sattanaickan Street and Pei Gopuram area, at a cost of ₹2.8 crore funded by the 15th Finance Commission scheme. Residents like K. Sampath are urging further action, specifically the desilting of the Vengaikal irrigation tank, which receives water from multiple streams.
The Arunachala Hills, a protected area under the Adi Annamalai Reserve Forest, present unique challenges due to its terrain. The collaboration between the Corporation, the Highways Department, and Forest officials is aimed at protecting both the town and the natural environment.
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