Is Chennai Corporation Working to Complete Sponge Parks Before the Monsoon?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Greater Chennai Corporation's innovative sponge parks aim to tackle urban flooding and groundwater issues, setting a precedent for sustainable urban water management in India. Will these parks be ready in time for the monsoon?
Key Takeaways
- Chennai Corporation is building sponge parks to manage urban flooding.
- 31 parks are planned to be completed before the monsoon.
- The initiative aims to enhance groundwater recharge.
- Construction has begun at 16 sites, with 14 more underway.
- Experts view this as a vital solution for the city's water management issues.
Chennai, June 4 (NationPress) In a significant move towards enhancing climate resilience and improving urban water management, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is in the process of building sponge parks throughout the city to address urban flooding and restore groundwater levels.
The civic authority has earmarked 31 such parks across 12 distinct zones for the fiscal year 2024–25, with an estimated investment of Rs 8.10 crore.
Officials state that sponge parks serve as nature-based solutions capable of absorbing rainwater during the monsoon season, facilitating percolation into the earth, thus diminishing surface runoff and boosting groundwater recharge.
This concept, which originated in China, is being customized to fit the unique topography and soil conditions of Chennai.
Currently, construction has been finalized at 16 sites, with work actively progressing at 14 others.
The Corporation aims to have all sponge parks completed prior to the monsoon onset, followed by a formal inauguration.
"Work orders were issued in November 2024. We have prioritized rapid execution this year to meet the deadline before the monsoon. Once finished, these parks will not only mitigate flooding but also contribute to long-term water conservation," remarked a senior official from GCC.
The selection of locations for sponge parks was determined by the presence of existing parks, the condition of nearby roads to promote effective water flow, and the permeability of local soil.
Although 31 sites were initially proposed, the location at Anbhazhagan Park in Teynampet Zone was eventually removed from the plan.
Each sponge park is being developed in existing park areas and varies in size according to the available space. GCC has issued work orders for the establishment of between one and six sponge parks in each of the 12 participating zones, including Madhavaram, Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, Ambattur, Teynampet, Kodambakkam, Valasaravakkam, Alandur, Royapuram, Anna Nagar, Tondiarpet, and Sholinganallur.
Water management specialists and local NGOs have praised the initiative, describing it as a timely and innovative solution to Chennai's ongoing water issues.
Given the city's unpredictable rainfall patterns and the rising frequency of waterlogging incidents, the GCC's sponge park initiative is anticipated to become a benchmark for sustainable urban water management across India.
Point of View
I recognize the Greater Chennai Corporation's sponge park initiative as a crucial step towards sustainable urban development. In the face of climate change and erratic weather patterns, such innovative solutions will not only mitigate flooding but also enhance long-term water conservation efforts across the country.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sponge parks?
Sponge parks are nature-based solutions designed to absorb rainwater, reduce surface runoff, and enhance groundwater recharge during the monsoon season.
How many sponge parks are planned in Chennai?
The Greater Chennai Corporation has planned 31 sponge parks across 12 zones in the city for the fiscal year 2024-25.
What is the cost of developing sponge parks?
The estimated cost for the development of the sponge parks is Rs 8.10 crore.
When will the sponge parks be completed?
The Corporation aims to have all sponge parks ready before the onset of the monsoon season.
Why were some locations removed from the plan?
Some locations, such as Anbhazhagan Park in Teynampet Zone, were removed due to various considerations like site suitability and existing conditions.
