Chennai Monsoon 2026: GCC Launches Pre-Monsoon Works to Prevent Waterlogging

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and the State Highways Department have launched extensive pre-monsoon preparation works in Chennai to prevent waterlogging and improve the city’s preparedness for heavy rains. The ongoing desilting and infrastructure maintenance works are targeted for completion by September 30, 2026.

Following directives from Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, multiple government departments are jointly carrying out the Chennai pre-monsoon works 2026. The GCC, Public Works Department (PWD), Metro Water Board and Southern Railway are coordinating the operations to strengthen drainage infrastructure and minimise the impact of monsoon rainfall.

Chennai Pre-Monsoon Preparation Works

The ongoing infrastructure works include the construction of new stormwater drains, repair of existing drainage networks, raising of manholes and maintenance of flood-pumping stations.

Desilting work is currently being carried out across 1,671.39 km of stormwater drains, covering 1,10,082 silt catch pits and 1,08,041 drain channels across Chennai.

More than 11,790 metric tonnes of silt and invasive water hyacinth have been removed from local water bodies over the past month. The removal work is aimed at improving water flow and reducing the risk of waterlogging during heavy rainfall.

Highways Department Stormwater Drain Works

The State Highways Department is undertaking additional drainage maintenance covering around 430 km of stormwater drains and 18,000 inspection pits under its jurisdiction.

Targeted clearing operations are also being carried out at 815 minor subways, 16 major subways and 12 pedestrian subways, as well as seven critical low-lying areas. These measures are intended to prevent water accumulation and maintain uninterrupted movement during periods of heavy rain.

GCC Commissioner Reviews Chennai Monsoon Preparedness

GCC Commissioner G.S. Sameeran inspected ongoing stormwater drain construction works on 3rd Avenue in Anna Nagar. He later reviewed the overall Chennai pre-monsoon preparedness, desilting activities and stormwater drain works across the North, Central and South regions of the city.

The coordinated Chennai monsoon preparation campaign is focused on improving drainage capacity, clearing water channels and strengthening critical infrastructure ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.