El Niño Threatens Heavy Rain in Chennai

Chennai Mayor R. Priya has warned that the city could face heavy rainfall of over 50 cm during the upcoming Northeast monsoon, driven by El Niño weather patterns. Despite ongoing efforts by the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), she highlighted delays in preparing for the monsoon season.

The mayor emphasized the risks posed by extreme weather events, referencing last year’s Michaung Cyclone, which brought up to 45 cm of rain. She noted that this year’s rainfall could either match or exceed these levels, with experts cautioning against the possibility of drought if rains are sparse.

Priya stressed the importance of annual desilting in city canals to prevent flooding. While GCC has started work on three key canals—Veerangal Odai, Otteri Nullah, and Virugambakkam Canal—the process has been delayed. Tenders were issued in July, with work beginning in August, compared to the usual June start.

The mayor also pointed out that only 21 of 33 planned canal improvements have been completed, covering a total length of 15,868 meters. As of August 1, 2026, 14% of the targeted length remained unfinished. For example, work on Otteri Nullah is 75% complete, while Virugambakkam Canal’s desilting is more than halfway done.

To address potential waterlogging, the GCC has identified 294 vulnerable sites and plans to deploy pumps and motors at key locations. Mitigation measures are also being implemented in areas affected by surplus discharge from the Puzhal river.

Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the city’s readiness for heavy rainfall, with the mayor calling for faster progress on canal improvements.