TN CM Vijay Reviews Rain Preparedness, Directs Officials to Intensify Flood Prevention Measures
Following heavy rainfall and waterlogging in Chennai, the chief minister directs officials to strengthen emergency response, accelerate drainage works and ensure coordinated relief operations ahead of further downpours.
CHENNAI, Oct 18: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Sunday reviewed the state’s preparedness for the northeast monsoon and directed officials to intensify flood prevention measures following heavy overnight rainfall that inundated several parts of Chennai.
The chief minister conducted the review at the Integrated State Command and Control Centre at the Greater Chennai Corporation’s Ripon Building, where he assessed rain related damage, relief operations and the progress of preventive works.
Heavy showers on Saturday night disrupted traffic and caused waterlogging across the city. North Chennai recorded rainfall of 6 cm to 10 cm within less than an hour, according to official information.
Parrys Corner received the highest rainfall at 36 cm, followed by Kathivakkam with 34 cm, while Manali and Ennore recorded 21 cm each. Waterlogging was reported at 35 locations across Chennai.
The rainfall was associated with an upper-air cyclonic circulation over north Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh, along with a trough extending from Lakshadweep to the southwest Bay of Bengal.
Accompanied by cabinet ministers and senior government officials, Vijay examined rainfall data and reviewed the condition of subways, canals and river mouths. He also assessed the handling of public complaints and the measures taken to address local flooding.
During the meeting, Greater Chennai Corporation Commissioner G S Sameeran briefed the chief minister on emergency response arrangements, including rescue operations and the distribution of food to people affected by the downpour.
Vijay appreciated the timely intervention of corporation employees and personnel from other departments. He also interacted with staff at the control centre and acknowledged their efforts in managing the situation.
The chief minister instructed officials to identify vulnerable locations that had experienced waterlogging during previous spells of rain and accelerate preventive works to minimise the possibility of flooding. He emphasised the need to address recurring drainage problems before the next round of heavy showers.
Ministers and officials were directed to expedite precautionary measures across Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu. Vijay also outlined the response protocols to be followed during flood emergencies to ensure timely assistance and minimise inconvenience to residents.
The chief minister stressed that all departments must work in close coordination and ensure the effective implementation of relief and preparedness measures. Officials were asked to remain vigilant and respond promptly to weather alerts as the northeast monsoon continues.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rainfall across several districts and issued a yellow alert for 17 districts, including Chennai and Tiruvallur, until October 23. The warning indicates the possibility of heavy rainfall measuring between 6 cm and 11 cm.
With further showers expected, the state administration is focusing on drainage management, emergency response and preventive action in vulnerable areas to reduce the risk of flooding and protect residents and public infrastructure.
