Is Coimbatore Prepared for the Upcoming Southwest Monsoon?
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Synopsis
Coimbatore is ramping up its readiness for the southwest monsoon, focusing on critical areas prone to flooding. Key measures include deploying over 4,500 workers, installing pumps, and enhancing drainage systems. With 94 relief centres set up, the district aims to ensure safety for residents amid anticipated heavy rains.
Key Takeaways
- Coimbatore is enhancing its monsoon preparedness with over 4,500 workers on standby.
- High-capacity pumps installed at critical locations aim to prevent waterlogging.
- 94 relief centres have been established for residents in case of severe flooding.
- Authorities are actively clearing drains and culverts to ensure proper water flow.
- Tree trimming efforts are in place to mitigate risks from falling branches during storms.
Chennai, May 21 (NationPress) As the southwest monsoon approaches earlier than expected, the Coimbatore district administration, along with civic authorities, is enhancing its readiness to address rain-related issues such as drain overflows, water stagnation, and possible evacuations.
The Coimbatore City Corporation is concentrating on pinpointing vulnerable areas and executing preventive measures. Approximately 4,500 sanitary workers have been put on alert, prepared to respond at any time during heavy rainfall, as confirmed by officials.
Areas like subways and underpasses near the old Avinashi flyover, Kaleeswara Mill, ARC Junction, North Coimbatore, and Lanka Corner are notorious for severe waterlogging each monsoon, often disrupting connectivity for extended periods. To combat this, high-capacity pumps have been installed at strategic locations to expel stagnant water.
Despite these measures, difficulties remain at Kaleeswara Mill, the old Avinashi flyover, and Lanka Corner.
Officials indicated that redesigning the gravity flow systems in these areas would necessitate considerable funding, which is not currently feasible. City Corporation Commissioner Sivaguru Prabhakaran mentioned that three 100 HP motors have been installed—two at the Avinashi flyover and one at Kaleeswara Mill. He remarked that the drain at Lanka Corner continues to be a bottleneck due to its narrow design and frequent blockages.
A proposal to increase its capacity is pending approval. High-risk drains, such as the one on Good Shed Road, are also undergoing desilting.
A senior official reported that five loads of debris—washed in during recent rains—have already been cleared, along with overgrown vegetation.
Culverts along Good Shed and Trichy Roads are also being cleaned. To date, 60% of the desilting work has been accomplished.
The Corporation is focused on clearing 250 km of small drains within its jurisdiction, prioritizing canals and culverts that intersect roads and are susceptible to flooding. Additionally, 23 railway crossings have been identified for waste removal, with operations being coordinated with railway authorities.
Tree trimming is underway across all five zones of the corporation to mitigate damage from falling branches during high winds.
A total of 47 teams, equipped with 65 tree-cutting machines, have been mobilized. The civic body has also stockpiled 5,000 sandbags—1,000 for each zone—to seal breaches in canals if necessary.
Meanwhile, the District Disaster Management Authority is also intensifying preparations. Control rooms have been set up at each taluk office, and first responders from local bodies are being trained.
“We have identified 2,026 volunteers and are currently verifying the list,” an official stated.
Authorities have marked 24 vulnerable areas within city limits and 15 in rural regions. A total of 94 relief centres have been established to accommodate residents in case of severe flooding.
Coimbatore District Fire and Rescue Officer Pulagendi mentioned that 14 fire stations across the district, staffed by 300 personnel, are prepared for emergency situations.
“Our teams will be fully mobilized during the monsoon. We have also conducted mock drills at local water bodies to enhance public awareness on flood survival techniques,” he added.
Point of View
Coimbatore's proactive approach in preparing for the southwest monsoon exemplifies the importance of local governance in disaster management. The emphasis on community safety through thorough preparedness not only reflects a commitment to public welfare but also sets a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures are being taken to prepare for the monsoon in Coimbatore?
The Coimbatore district administration is implementing several measures, including deploying over 4,500 sanitary workers, installing high-capacity pumps, clearing drains, and setting up 94 relief centres.
How many vulnerable areas have been identified in Coimbatore?
Authorities have identified 24 vulnerable areas within city limits and 15 in rural regions.
What is being done to handle waterlogging in specific locations?
High-capacity motors have been installed at critical points to pump out stagnant water, particularly in areas like Kaleeswara Mill and the old Avinashi flyover.
Is there a plan for tree maintenance in Coimbatore?
Yes, tree trimming is underway across all five zones to prevent damage from falling branches during high winds.
How is the District Disaster Management Authority preparing for emergencies?
Control rooms have been established at each taluk office, and first responders are being trained to ensure readiness during the monsoon.
