GCC Uses Drones to Survey 44 Canals Ahead of Northeast Monsoon

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has started using drones to inspect 44 canals across Chennai as part of its northeast monsoon preparedness. The survey will help identify silt, garbage, vegetation and other blockages before desilting work begins.

The 44 canals cover a total length of 81.81 km and include major waterways such as Kodungaiyur, Veerangal Odai, Mambalam, Otteri Nalla, Virugambakkam, Captain Cotton, Trustpuram, Rettai Kuppam, Pallikaranai and Secretariat Colony canals.

The Chennai Corporation drone survey began at Kodungaiyur North Canal in Muthamizh Nagar. Corporation Commissioner G.S. Sameeran inspected the work. Surveys are also being conducted along Veerangal Odai and West Mambalam Canal.

Around 4 to 5 drones will be deployed daily to cover different canal stretches. The photographs, videos and location data will be used to create GIS-based maps and a database showing the condition of the waterways.

Based on the survey, the GCC will identify areas requiring desilting, garbage removal, vegetation clearance and repairs. These works will be taken up on priority before the northeast monsoon to keep water flowing freely and reduce the risk of Chennai flooding and waterlogging.