Chennai: With several streets in Semmancheri facing severe waterlogging during every monsoon, the Greater Chennai Corporation is executing a ₹184.88-crore stormwater drain project aimed at providing a dedicated drainage link from the Semmancheri-Arasankazhani canal to the Buckingham Canal.Funded by Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW), the project involves the construction of a 4,235m long stormwater drain along the Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) and TNHB Main Road. The drain is expected to improve the movement of excess rainwater from the Semmancheri-Arasankazhani canal towards the Buckingham Canal, thereby reducing water stagnation in the surrounding residential areas.The project is part of the corporation’s efforts to strengthen stormwater infrastructure in flood-prone areas and improve the evacuation of rainwater during heavy spells, reducing the impact of monsoon flooding on residents. It is particularly significant for Semmancheri, where rapid urbanisation and increased built-up areas have placed additional pressure on existing drainage infrastructure.Residents said flooding and prolonged waterlogging have been a recurring problem during heavy rain, affecting movement and daily activities. “Every monsoon, water stagnates severely on several streets. Even after the rain stops, the water remains for a long time, making it difficult for residents to get around,” said V Malathi, a resident of Annai Sathya street, OMR.GCC Commissioner G S Sameeran inspected the ongoing works at Nookampalayam Link Road and TNHB ‘A’ Road in Sholinganallur on Saturday. He instructed officials to ensure that the project is completed within the September-end deadline. “The civic body will closely monitor the progress of the works in the coming weeks, particularly with the northeast monsoon approaching” he said.
