Millions Washed Away in Tamil Nadu as Rainwater Drains Fail
Union Minister of State L. Murugan expressed his frustration over the failure of the 4,000 crore rupees worth of rainwater drains that were constructed in Chennai to prevent stagnation. Murugan spoke out after the rainwater had been stagnant for several days, causing extensive damage and washing away millions of rupees.
The inauguration of the rainwater drains was celebrated by Union Deputy Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Fisheries, Livestock and Maintenance L. Murugan, who waved the flag and inaugurated the project. However, days later after the heavy rain, the drains proved to be ineffective in preventing water stagnation.
Minister Murugan also highlighted an ongoing awareness campaign vehicle that is traveling across Tamil Nadu to reach 220 villages in the Coimbatore district. The purpose of the campaign is to bring awareness of the central government’s welfare schemes to the people and to identify new beneficiaries.
The disappointment over the failed rainwater drainage system in Chennai was evident as Minister Murugan emphasized the extreme conditions in the city. Noting that even in one hour, a distance of 1 km could not be covered due to the accumulation of rainwater in major areas such as Adyar and Nungambakkam.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister’s constituency of Koluthur was also experiencing extreme waterlogging to the extent that travel could only be done by boat. Minister Murugan called for a change in the charity sector, suggesting that the government should not rely on charity for assistance and instead appoint virtuous individuals to lead the way.
As the rainwater continues to cause havoc in Tamil Nadu, the failure of the rainwater drainage system in Chennai raises concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of large-scale government projects. The need for better infrastructure and disaster preparedness is now more pressing than ever as Tamil Nadu continues to grapple with the aftermath of heavy rainfall.