Is Chennai's civic body ready for monsoon? Enhanced pond restoration and rainwater harvesting parks underway!
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Synopsis
In a proactive move to prepare for the Northeast monsoon, the Greater Chennai Corporation is aggressively restoring water bodies and developing rainwater harvesting parks. This initiative not only aims to combat waterlogging but also focuses on improving groundwater recharge and creating vibrant public spaces. Discover how these efforts will reshape Chennai's resilience against floods.
Key Takeaways
- Chennai is enhancing its water body restoration efforts.
- 44 ponds are slated for improvement.
- 88 rainwater harvesting parks have been launched.
- Efforts focus on ecological resilience and sustainability.
- Collaboration with non-profit organizations is key.
Chennai, Sep 4 (NationPress) The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has significantly increased its initiatives to rejuvenate water bodies and develop rainwater harvesting parks throughout the city in preparation for the upcoming Northeast monsoon.
Civic representatives announced on Wednesday that these efforts are aimed at addressing waterlogging, enhancing groundwater recharge, and creating functional public areas.
The restoration of 22 ponds in southern Chennai is currently in progress with the collaboration of a non-profit organization.
Additionally, 44 more ponds have been earmarked for enhancement, with an estimated budget of Rs 119.32 crore.
A distinct initiative is set to rejuvenate 41 ponds across Tiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, and Tondiarpet at a projected cost of Rs 119.42 crore.
Over the past four years, the GCC has revitalized 70 ponds at an expenditure of Rs 144.34 crore.
The city's pond inventory has grown from 210 to 251, including the recent addition of four newly created ponds within the former Madras Race Club premises at Guindy and two ponds established near the MRTS line at the six-vent culvert.
In parallel, the civic body has launched 88 rainwater harvesting parks in various neighborhoods at a total cost of Rs 14.74 crore.
These parks are designed with upgraded public spaces and playgrounds, complete with recharge pits to facilitate stormwater absorption.
During the fiscal year 2022–23, 57 of these parks were constructed in regions such as Tondiarpet, Perambur, Anna Nagar, Alandur, and Sholinganallur at a cost of Rs 7.67 crore.
Additionally, 27 parks were finalized this year at an expense of Rs 6.34 crore, while four more are currently underway with an estimated cost of Rs 72.6 lakh.
These initiatives are being carried out under various programs, including Singara Chennai 2.0, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Namakku Naame, and the Asian Development Bank project.
Civic officials stated that these programs target temple tanks, community lakes, and other water bodies, with a focus on desilting, strengthening bunds, and eliminating encroachments.
"The restoration efforts are not solely about aesthetics; they are vital for enhancing Chennai's resilience against flooding and ensuring sustainable groundwater management," the Corporation emphasized in a statement.
Point of View
The city is prioritizing not only aesthetic improvements but also ecological resilience. Such efforts are essential for ensuring a sustainable future, especially in the face of increasing urbanization and climate change.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the pond restoration project?
The pond restoration project aims to tackle waterlogging, enhance groundwater recharge, and create usable public spaces.
How many ponds are currently being restored?
Currently, 22 ponds in southern Chennai are undergoing restoration.
What is the estimated cost for improving the additional ponds?
The cost for improving the 44 more ponds is estimated at Rs 119.32 crore.
How many rainwater harvesting parks have been established?
A total of 88 rainwater harvesting parks have been rolled out across different neighborhoods.
What are the key initiatives driving these projects?
These projects are being executed under programs like Singara Chennai 2.0 and AMRUT.
