Chennai, December 1 (NationPress) The city of Chennai was brought to a standstill on Monday as the residual effects of Cyclone Ditwah over the Bay of Bengal unleashed persistent heavy rainfall across the region.

The torrential rain caused flooding on major thoroughfares, uprooted trees, disrupted traffic flow, and inundated various neighborhoods, compelling authorities to issue urgent advisories urging residents to stay indoors.

The devastation was particularly evident on Greenways Road, where numerous trees were toppled by the heavy downpour and strong winds. At least three vehicles sustained damage, and teams from the Fire and Rescue Services were dispatched to clear significant debris.

Traffic in the vicinity was halted until law enforcement restored partial access.

Citywide, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) recorded extensive traffic disruptions. Major roads, subways, and underpasses were submerged within hours, transforming critical routes into hazardous, waterlogged areas.

As most subways remained closed due to flooding, police cautioned drivers against attempting to navigate any submerged sections under any circumstances.

Commuters in southern Chennai faced major challenges as the Sholinganallur-Medavakkam Road became completely impassable. Travelers heading to Tambaram were advised to take alternate routes through OMR.

In the northern regions, the Manali-Thiruvottiyur stretch became unpassable, with waist-deep water prompting authorities to halt all vehicular movement.

Key intersections like Madhya Kailash, along with areas such as North Boag Road, experienced significant waterlogging and traffic congestion. Lengthy traffic snarls also impacted Tambaram and several suburban neighborhoods, leaving countless individuals stranded for hours.

Residential neighborhoods faced repeated flooding. Areas like Ambattur, Avadi, Virugambakkam, Vadapalani, and Iyyappanthangal reported increasing water levels, with residents attributing the issues to insufficient stormwater drainage.

In critically affected regions like Mugalivakkam, traffic police were deployed, but vehicles continued to inch through deep pools of rainwater.

Authorities suggested that commuters utilize relatively unaffected routes such as Anna Salai and Poonamallee High Road when possible. The Chennai Metro Rail continued to function normally between Airport and Central, providing a safer travel alternative.

Access to Marina Beach was strictly restricted due to turbulent seas and high waves caused by the depression.

With forecasts indicating more heavy rain throughout the night, the GCTP urged citizens to stay updated via its official social media accounts, particularly X (@ChennaiTraffic), and to adhere to all safety guidelines.