Chennai on High Alert as Heavy Rains Trigger Flood Warning
The Water Resources Department (WRD) sounded a flood alert in Chennai on Thursday after intense rainfall across the Palar river catchment area caused significant water overflow. The situation has led to three interconnected lakes in Parandur and Ekanapuram reaching their capacity, with surplus water now flowing into the Cooum river at Gunakarampakkam.
Water Release and Flow Patterns
Approximately 929 cusecs of water is currently being discharged from the Palar check dam into the Kaveripakkam canal located in Ranipet district. Simultaneously, 700 cusecs is flowing into the Govindavadi canal, creating a combined water release of 1,629 cusecs.
The water movement follows a specific pathway: from Govindavadi, it travels to the Kambakkal canal and proceeds to Sriperumpudur. This sequence has resulted in the filling of three major water bodies:
- Parandur Big Lake
- Ekanapuram Kali Lake
- Ekanapuram Kadambanthangal Lake
The overflow from these lakes is now moving downstream and entering the Cooum river through the Gunakarampakkam reservoir.
Public Safety Measures Issued
With water levels running one foot above the causeway at Gunakarampakkam, the WRD has issued crucial safety guidelines for residents. The department strongly advises the public against:
- Entering or crossing the river
- Bathing in the waterbody
- Washing clothes in the river
Additionally, residents have been instructed to keep their livestock away from the waterbody until water levels return to normal. The warning remains in effect until the situation stabilizes and water recedes to safe levels.
Current Situation and Precautions
The interconnected lake system has created a chain reaction of water overflow, highlighting the vulnerability of the region to heavy rainfall. Authorities are closely monitoring the water flow patterns and levels at various points along the river system.
Local communities in the affected areas have been alerted about the potential risks associated with the rising water levels. The WRD continues to track the situation and will provide updates as the weather conditions evolve.
This flood warning comes as Chennai experiences widespread rainfall, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance during the monsoon season. Residents are advised to stay informed about official updates and adhere strictly to the safety guidelines provided by authorities.
