Chennai Faces Heavy Downpour; Traffic Chaos, Waterlogging Disrupt Daily Life

Chennai and its neighboring districts Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur are experiencing heavy downpours, causing traffic congestion and waterlogging in several areas. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that the low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is intensifying. Traffic congestion has become a major issue, particularly in northern Chennai hotspots like Perambur and Koyambedu, where waterlogging has exacerbated travel woes. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) warns that heavy rain will continue to pummel these areas on October 15 and 16, prompting a Red alert for residents.

To mitigate the effects of the rainfall, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has arranged a fleet of 200 dewatering pumps, featuring capacities of 200 HP, 100 HP, and 50 HP, along with ten lorry-mounted pumps on standby for emergencies. CMRL has pinpointed ten critical spots in Chennai that are at high risk, including Koyambedu, the Grain Market, Porur Junction, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Thiruvanmiyur, Indira Nagar, and St. Thomas Mount.

As the southeast monsoon is set to withdraw soon, the northeast monsoon is poised to make its entrance. Meteorological officials predict that easterly and northeasterly winds across southern peninsular India and the adjoining central Bay of Bengal will trigger more intense rainfall in coastal and nearby interior districts of Tamil Nadu in the coming days.

Orange and yellow alerts have also been issued for several districts, including Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vellore, Tirupattur, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore. Other parts of Tamil Nadu can expect lighter rain, especially in the northern and some southern regions of the state. 

Amid all this, Tamil Nadu's Deputy Chief Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, took a proactive step by visiting the Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC) at Ripon Building in Chennai to assess the city's monsoon readiness. This center will be crucial for receiving flood alerts and reports within the Chennai Corporation limits. For those facing emergencies or dealing with rain-related issues, residents are encouraged to reach out to the ICCC helpline at 1913. 

As the rains continue, Chennai's residents are reminded to stay alert and prepared for the unpredictable weather ahead.