1 hr ago

Tamil Nadu Orders War-Footing Northeast Monsoon Preparations Across Chennai

Tamil Nadu officials are getting Chennai ready for the Northeast monsoon.

The Chief Secretary said the work must be done very quickly, by the end of September.

Workers are cleaning mud and waste from thousands of kilometres of drains.

Pumps will be kept ready in places that often flood.

Officials will also clear rivers, canals and other waterways so rainwater can move away.

Rescue boats and volunteers will be prepared in case flooding happens.

Relief centres and community kitchens will be checked.

Electricity equipment will be raised or protected to reduce the risk of electrocution.

Key facts

Deadline: All desilting, stormwater-drain network and related civic restoration works are targeted for completion by the end of September.
Drain desilting: Work covers 1,671 km of stormwater drains within Greater Chennai Corporation limits.
Silt catch pits: Officials are addressing 1,10,082 silt catch pits within Greater Chennai Corporation limits.
Priority flood locations: Velachery, Ambattur SIDCO, Tiruvottiyur and Manali were highlighted for standby high-capacity pumps.
Rescue preparations: Flood rescue boats, field volunteers, designated relief centres and community kitchens are to be prepared or inspected.
Electricity safety: Distribution pillar boxes are to be elevated and underground cables fully insulated to prevent leakage and electrocution hazards.
Agencies involved: The Water Resources Department, Highways, Chennai Metrowater, Chennai Metro Rail and TANGEDCO were asked to coordinate with civic bodies.

thehansindia.com · 2 hrs ago