Chennai, Oct 16 (NationPress) As the city of Chennai welcomes the initial showers of the northeast monsoon, unease is growing among residents regarding the incomplete stormwater drain (SWD) projects that could undermine flood prevention efforts. Despite multiple assurances from the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), essential desilting and drain installation initiatives remain unfinished, causing anxiety among locals who fear potential waterlogging and traffic disruptions.

In the Kumaran Colony area of Saidapet, the circumstances have become particularly alarming. Work on a significant stormwater drain along Kumaran Colony 1st Street was abruptly paused for nearly two weeks following a revision in the alignment plan.

The shift in the drain’s position from one side of the road to the other—prompted by concerns regarding its proximity to residential properties and borewells—has further stalled progress. The timing of the resumed work, coinciding with the arrival of rain, has only intensified residents’ frustrations as the busy thoroughfare leading to Aranganathan Subway and Old Mambalam Road remains obstructed.

This delay has also adversely affected local businesses. Nearby shop owners and mechanics have reported a significant decline in customer traffic as the area is closed off for construction. Many worry that the rushed efforts to complete the work before the rains could jeopardize the quality and longevity of the drains, leading to future maintenance challenges.

Engineers from the Corporation have confirmed that all necessary road-cutting activities are concluded and have assured that the remaining stretch of the drain will be completed soon. However, the evident urgency to finalize the project has done little to alleviate public concerns.

Complaints about similar issues have surfaced in other parts of the city. On Konnur High Road, the ongoing SWD construction is narrowing traffic lanes, resulting in continual congestion and fears that even light rainfall could immobilize movement in the Ayanavaram area.

Officials from the SWD department assert that no new projects have been initiated and that efforts are focused on safely completing current undertakings, employing barricades to avoid accidents. Yet, with the monsoon season upon us and significant drains still under construction, Chennai is poised to face another challenge regarding its readiness—one that will test whether the substantial investments in flood management can endure the season’s first significant downpour.