Udhayanidhi Stalin Oversees North Chennai Flood-Mitigation Drive as Cyclone Nears Coast

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin led a detailed on-site inspection of desilting and flood-mitigation initiatives in North Chennai on Monday, reinforcing the state government’s robust preparedness for Cyclone Montha. Accompanied by senior officials from the Greater Chennai Corporation, Public Works Department, and Revenue Administration, he assessed ongoing works across the Tondiarpet and Manali zones. The visit underscored the administration’s commitment to completing all preventive measures ahead of the anticipated rainfall, with strict timelines enforced for contractors and engineering teams.

Udhayanidhi addressed officials and media, declaring Tamil Nadu fully equipped to handle rain-related challenges. “While no severe direct impact is expected, every department has been directed to maintain constant vigilance, ensure uninterrupted civic services, and execute precautionary protocols without delay,” he stated. He instructed local authorities to collaborate closely with the State Disaster Management Authority for real-time monitoring, resource allocation, and swift action in low-lying and historically vulnerable localities.

The India Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rainfall across Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu districts as Cyclone Montha strengthens over the Bay of Bengal and nears the Andhra Pradesh coast. Currently a deep depression, the system is projected to intensify into a cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours. This has triggered enhanced coastal surveillance, activation of early warning networks, and mobilization of fisheries and coastal police units to secure vulnerable shoreline communities.

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In the Tondiarpet zone, desilting and restoration projects worth Rs 6.85 crore are progressing rapidly, encompassing canal clearance, pond rejuvenation, and stormwater drain upgrades to bolster urban flood resilience. Heavy machinery is removing accumulated silt, while structural enhancements are being applied to key outflow channels to manage high-volume runoff. These efforts aim to restore optimal water-carrying capacity and prevent localized flooding during intense rain spells.

The government has operationalized 24/7 control rooms, deployed over 500 rapid-response personnel, and prepared temporary shelters for potential large-scale evacuations. Essential supplies, medical teams, and backup power systems are on standby. Public awareness drives in multiple languages are informing residents about safety measures, evacuation pathways, and emergency helplines. Ongoing infrastructure investments signal a long-term strategy to build a climate-resilient Chennai, integrating advanced drainage systems and predictive analytics to counter future extreme weather events.

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