Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved ₹561.29 crore for Chennai’s first urban flood mitigation project, aimed at enhancing flood management in the city. This initiative, named the “Integrated Urban Flood Management” project for the Chennai Basin, was announced by Home Minister Amit Shah today. The funding comes as Chennai deals with severe flooding due to Cyclone Michaung, which has caused extensive damage and highlighted the urgent need for better flood prevention infrastructure.
“Chennai has experienced major floods for the third time in eight years, with metropolitan areas increasingly facing extreme rainfall and sudden flooding,” Shah stated on X. He emphasized that Prime Minister Modi’s proactive approach led to the approval of this significant project under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF), which includes ₹500 crore in central assistance.
Following an aerial survey and a high-level meeting with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the release of funds. The initial installment of ₹450 crore was previously distributed, with the second installment made available today.
Cyclone Michaung, which made landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast on Tuesday, brought heavy rains that have left Chennai and surrounding districts severely waterlogged. The persistent flooding has disrupted daily life, stranding many residents in their homes.
In response to the crisis, the government has intensified relief efforts in Chennai. Measures to pump out standing water are underway across various parts of the city, and both the Indian Air Force and Coast Guard are assisting with the distribution of food and medical supplies via helicopter.
The affected areas, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu, are at the center of ongoing relief and recovery operations. The significant investment in flood management reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the city’s persistent flood challenges.
