MAWS Secretary Sets Oct 10 Deadline for Stormwater Drain Desilting

The Municipal Administration and Water Supply (MAWS) Department Secretary announced on [date] that stormwater drain desilting works across Tamil Nadu will be completed by October 10. The announcement covers desilting operations in the Buckingham Canal at 18 locations, the Cooum River at 14 locations, and internal canals in Coimbatore, Trichy, and Madurai.

The desilting drive is a critical annual pre-monsoon measure aimed at preventing urban flooding in Chennai and other major cities. The Buckingham Canal and Cooum River are key waterways that often overflow during heavy rains, causing widespread disruption. The MAWS Department has not yet released specific tonnage figures or budget allocations for the current drive.

With the northeast monsoon expected to begin in October, the timely completion of these works is essential to mitigate flood risks. Residents and civic groups will be watching closely for progress, and any delays could exacerbate flooding in vulnerable areas. The department is expected to provide further updates as the deadline approaches.