Chennai Perambur SWD Work: Residents Seek GCC Inspection

Residents of Perambur have raised concerns over ongoing stormwater drain (SWD) construction at the Venkatraman Canal Street–Perambur High Road North Side junction, claiming that the newly constructed drain is more than a foot above the existing road level.

Residents said the height difference has created concerns for pedestrian movement, two-wheeler access and rainwater flow in the area. They have urged the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) to conduct an immediate inspection of the work and verify whether the construction follows the approved design.

Residents Seek GCC Inspection

According to members of the Perambur Neighbourhood Development Forum, structural defects have been noticed in the SWD work at Venkatraman Canal Street. They have also expressed concern that raising the drain further could require the adjoining road to be elevated.

Residents have requested senior GCC engineering officials to inspect the site, check the approved design levels against the actual construction and address any defects before the work is completed.

Concerns Over Pedestrian Safety

Residents also warned that the elevated drain could create additional problems if commercial advertisements or other structures encroach on the available pedestrian space.

They said further encroachment could force pedestrians to use the busy road, creating a potential safety concern.

Coordination Between Civic Agencies

Forum members have also raised concerns over coordination between the GCC, Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) and Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL).

They called for underground pipelines and other utility-related issues to be checked and rectified as part of the inspection.

GCC Explains Drain Height

A GCC official said the stormwater drain was constructed to match the level of Perambur High Road. According to the official, reducing the drain height could result in rainwater flowing towards Venkatraman Canal Street.

The official added that a suitable slope would be provided on Venkatraman Canal Street to facilitate proper rainwater flow.

Residents are now seeking a detailed site inspection to ensure that the SWD work is completed safely and without affecting road access or drainage in the locality.