Chennai, October 16: Incessant rain continues to pound Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu, resulting in severe waterlogging across neighborhoods and major roads. Traffic congestion and disruptions in public transport have followed, with efforts underway to drain water from affected areas.
Several parts of the city, including the Madley Subway, Mambalam, and Choolaimedu, have experienced knee-deep water. Visuals from the Pattalam area reveal flooded streets with garbage floating on the water. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, warning of “very heavy rainfall” on October 17 and 18.
Government Takes Action Amid Rain Crisis
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin visited rain-affected areas in Chennai, monitoring relief operations and interacting with rescue teams. In a gesture of solidarity, he was seen sharing a cup of tea with workers engaged in relief efforts.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin inspected the Integrated Control and Command Centre in Chennai, reporting on the situation: “The city recorded an average rainfall of 5 cm in the past 24 hours, with Sholinganallur and Teynampet receiving the highest rainfall of 6 cm. Fortunately, no power cuts were reported.”
Teams have been dispatched to handle tree falls, with eight incidents reported. “All fallen trees will be cleared within 1.5 hours after the rain subsides,” Udhayanidhi Stalin said. He also mentioned that 26 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been stationed in Chennai and along coastal areas.
Public Services and Health Measures in Place
Out of 22 subways in the city, two have been closed due to flooding, and pumping efforts are ongoing to address water stagnation in 300 locations. The government has launched special health camps for the rainy season, with 1,000 camps set up across Tamil Nadu, including 100 in Chennai alone.
In response to the IMD’s forecast, the Tamil Nadu government declared a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts. Chief Minister Stalin also conducted a review meeting with senior officials to ensure preparedness, while Chief Secretary N Muruganandam directed authorities to make necessary arrangements.
