15 IAS officers to oversee rain relief works

These 15 special officers have begun their work on Saturday, said a statement from the government, while the Greater Chennai Corporation released emergency numbers and opened a control room at Ripon Buildings, its headquarters.

The decision of appointing special officers was taken during a flood review meeting held at the secretariat on Friday evening, which was presided over by Local Administration Minister S P Velumani. 

“After 2015 floods, the Chennai Corporation has built stormwater drains for 50 km at a cost of Rs 150 crores. In addition, construction of missing links in stormwater drains and laying of new drains at a cost of Rs 440 crores have also been taken up. The works will be completed before the end of this month,” the release said.

Meanwhile, the civic body has also planned 326 km of stormwater drain network in Sholinganallur, Perungudi and Alandur zones at a cost of Rs. 1,250 crore.

The Corporation has deployed 60 diesel pump sets, 458 motor pumps and 130 generators to clear inundation in 16 subways. 

“As many as 109 boats are kept ready to rescue people in case of a flood, while 176 relief centres will be operated. Food for stranded residents will be prepared in four kitchens,” the Chennai Corporation added.

Food would also be prepared at the Corporation-run Amma Canteens if required. 

As many as 44 stationary and mobile medical teams are constituted to prevent outbreak of any disease during heavy rains. Disaster rescue teams are stationed at 52 locations. 

Joining the efforts, the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) has 430 machines at disposal to clear sewer clogs. “The functions of machines will be monitored online,” the release said.