Thoothukudi Prepares for Monsoon: Drain Cleaning Underway

As a crucial precautionary measure before the upcoming northeast monsoon, Thoothukudi Corporation has significantly ramped up the desilting of all stormwater drains across the city. This initiative aims to guarantee unimpeded rainwater flow during the monsoon season.

The widening of Puckle Canal, a major city stormwater drain, is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed before the monsoon begins. Concurrently, the corporation is undertaking the desilting of approximately 350 km of stormwater drains, which includes 1,202 culverts.

Furthermore, the corporation is actively identifying and addressing illegal discharges of sewage and food waste into the stormwater drains. These illicit activities have been a primary cause of wastewater stagnation and drain blockages. Strict actions are also being enforced against unauthorized household connections to stormwater drains in areas where underground drainage (UGDS) works are complete and functional.

Thoothukudi Corporation Commissioner S. Priyanka highlighted that these extensive preparations are vital due to the city's geographical location below sea level, which makes it highly susceptible to flooding. She confirmed that the city's 37 pump rooms and over 50 motor pumps, used for draining stagnant water, are undergoing thorough inspection and necessary repairs to ensure their readiness.