Chennai Rains: Chembarambakkam and Puzhal Lakes Receive Increased Inflows After Heavy Rainfall

Heavy rainfall across Chennai and its suburban areas has increased water inflows into Chembarambakkam and Puzhal lakes, raising their water levels. The two reservoirs are important sources of drinking water for Chennai, and the increased inflows following overnight rainfall have brought renewed attention to the city`s water supply.

Chembarambakkam Lake Water Level Today

Chembarambakkam Lake, one of Chennai`s major drinking water sources, has received increased inflows following heavy rainfall across the city and surrounding areas.

According to the reported morning figures, the reservoir`s status was as follows:

Full reservoir level: 24 feet

Current water level: 14.21 feet

Total storage capacity: 3,645 million cubic feet (mcft)

Current water storage: 1,390 mcft

Water inflow: 655 cubic feet per second (cusecs)

Water released for drinking water and SIPCOT needs: 203 cusecs

The lake`s water level had declined in recent days amid hot weather and high temperatures. The latest rainfall has increased inflows into the reservoir.

Public Works Department (PWD) officials monitoring the lake said continued rainfall could help support Chennai`s drinking water supply. If necessary, additional water sources, including rainwater stored in the Sikkarayapuram stone quarries, could also be treated and used for supply.

Puzhal Lake Receives Higher Water Inflow

Puzhal Lake, another key reservoir supplying drinking water to Chennai, has also recorded a significant increase in inflow following rainfall in its catchment areas.

Heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning affected Cholavaram, Red Hills and surrounding areas. Red Hills reportedly recorded 12 cm of rainfall during the preceding 24-hour period, the highest in Tiruvallur district.

The reported Puzhal Lake figures were:

Full reservoir level: 21.2 feet

Current water level: 14.95 feet

Total storage capacity: 3,300 mcft

Current water storage: 2,037 mcft

Water inflow: 1,485 cusecs

Water released for Chennai`s drinking water supply: 171 cusecs

The inflow into Puzhal Lake increased from 663 cusecs to 1,485 cusecs compared with the previous day`s reported figure. The reservoir received approximately 111 mcft of water in a single day, according to the report.

Will Chennai`s Drinking Water Supply Improve?

The increased inflows into Chembarambakkkkam and Puzhal lakes could help replenish Chennai`s drinking water reserves following the recent hot weather.

Officials have indicated that continued rainfall would support water availability. Authorities can also consider supplementary sources if required, subject to water quality treatment and operational needs.

However, reservoir levels and inflows can change depending on rainfall in the catchment areas and water releases. Residents should follow official updates for the latest reservoir storage information.