Kotturpuram locality limps back to normalcy as water recedes

“The water levels have receded considerably in almost all areas of Chennai, including Kotturpuram,” said Rajan Balu, Assistant Commandant, IV Batallion, Arakonam, who was part of the rescue and relief work undertaken by National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). “We rescued 1200 people and 6 pet dogs from Kotturpram on Friday. We also distributed 3,300 food packets and 2,400 water packets,” he added. Long time residents of Kotturpuram estimated water levels went down by 10 feet compared to previous days. 

The gradual rise in the water levels on Adyar river under the Kotturpuram bridge from Tuesday affected housands of people, specially those residing in the housing board colony and adjacent roads. Many of them had to be evacuated to higher places. The bridge is a key route, connecting the city to Guindy, airport, Tambaram and beyond. Power supply to the area was cut and the unrelenting rain severely hit rescue operations. However, by Thursday the flood water began to recede and by Friday morning the bridge was dry. However a huge amount of debris, washed away by the flood water has piled up in the vicinity, and there is no official word on when traffic would be restored on the bridge. 

Kannan, a two wheeler mechanic said people like him suffered loss of business. Velu, another resident said help came in the form of food and water packets. “However, we need a long term solution,” he said. There is no official estimate on the loss to residents.