‘2015 floods shouldn't be repeated’: CM Vijay visits Chembarambakkam Dam as rains intensify

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay visited the Chembarambakkam Dam as the northeast monsoon and cyclone activity intensified in the state. He issued strict instructions to officials to monitor the water level around the clock and open the dam's shutters in a manner that prevents flooding in Chennai city.

Vijay's emergency visit comes against the backdrop of the devastating floods that submerged Chennai in December 2015. The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has alleged that the disaster was aggravated because officials delayed releasing water from the Chembarambakkam Dam at the time.

Vijay warned officials against repeating such lapses and stressed the need to ensure the safety of people's lives and property. He instructed them to closely monitor the dam's water level and ensure that the police, revenue department and Greater Chennai Corporation receive accurate information before the dam's shutters are opened.

He also directed officials to ensure that control rooms remain fully operational to handle emergencies. In addition, he stressed the need to maintain uninterrupted power supply, backup systems and communication facilities.

More than 100 people lost their lives in the 2015 floods in Chennai and its surrounding areas. The disaster also caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure.
TVK spokesperson M Sathyakumar said Chief Minister Vijay had personally visited the dam to assess the situation and ensure that the mistakes made in 2015 would not be repeated. He added that public safety remained the government's top priority.