As the Union government has rejected a proposal for funding stormwater drain projects for flood mitigation in Chennai, the State government has sought funding from the World Bank yet again.
A detailed project report for 765 km of stormwater drains in the Kosasthalaiyar basin, at an estimated cost of ₹1,784 crore, has been prepared to mitigate flooding in north Chennai areas of Tiruvottiyur, Manali and Madhavaram.
A proposal was sent to the Government of India, and funds were sought from NITI Aayog. However, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs informed the government that it is not in a position to provide funds. Hence, efforts are now being taken to seek assistance from the World Bank, according to a policy note tabled in the Assembly by Municipal Administration and Water Supplies Minister S.P. Velumani.
In accordance with the policy of the Greater Chennai Corporation to develop infrastructure in extended areas on a par with the core city, the civic body has prepared a detailed project report for Kosasthalaiyar, Cooum, Adyar and Kovalam basins at an estimated cost of ₹4,034 crore. The project would reduce inundation, integrate waterbodies, recharge groundwater and improve public health.
The World Bank has already provided funds for work on development of stormwater drains and canals in the urbanised neighbourhoods of the Adyar and the Cooum. This work would be completed in September, ahead of the northeast monsoon this year. Work on the World Bank-funded project in Ambattur, Alandur and Valasaravakkam has been completed along 378 km of drains.
New bridges
The Corporation will construct bridges at an estimate of ₹44.25 crore in Manali across the Puzhal surplus course to offer connectivity for residents during floods in areas such as Vadaperumbakkam, Aamullaivoyal and Burma Nagar.
Residents affected by flooding in north Chennai will get connectivity between Otteri Cooks Road and Dr. Ambedkar Road as another bridge has been proposed to be constructed across Otteri nullah at an estimate of ₹67.76 crore. A wall to prevent flooding of Konnur High Road will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹30 crore.
The State government has also planned to use Kolathur Rettai Eri for augmenting supply of drinking water in the city. Water supply and sewer network will be developed along new streets in added areas at ₹110 crore.