Following a comprehensive evaluation of the repercussions of Cyclone Michaung in Chennai, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin asserted that the stormwater drain projects spearheaded by the DMK government played a pivotal role in averting severe flooding in the city. After conducting an on-site assessment of the flood situation on Tuesday, Stalin remarked that the havoc wreaked by Cyclone Michaung was comparatively less extensive than the catastrophic floods experienced in 2015.
In the aftermath of the relentless rainfall induced by the formidable cyclonic storm 'Michaung,' which brought Chennai to a virtual standstill for two days, Stalin, accompanied by other state ministers, closely monitored the ground situation. Drawing parallels between the recent floods triggered by Michaung and those of eight years ago, Stalin highlighted, "The rainfall during Cyclone Michaung surpassed that of 2015. Unlike the 2015 floods, which were exacerbated by human intervention through the release of water from Chembarambakkam Lake, the current scenario represents a natural flood. The resulting damage is notably less extensive than that incurred during the previous flooding event."
Addressing the media at a press conference, the Chief Minister attributed the relatively limited impact of the recent flood to the efficacy of the stormwater drain projects implemented by the DMK government. He expressed gratitude that Chennai was spared from a more dire situation due to these infrastructure initiatives.
Despite ongoing relief endeavors in the inundated areas of the city, certain regions remain submerged underwater, prompting residents to resort to boat transportation. Criticism emerged from AIADMK MP M Thambidurai, who chastised the ruling state government for purportedly lacking preemptive measures. Thambidurai asserted, "The people of Chennai are enduring hardship, underscoring the ineffectiveness of the present government and its failure to effectively address the situation."
In contrast, Congress MP Karti Chidambaram came to the defense of the state government, acknowledging their proactive efforts. He affirmed, "The state government is exerting every possible effort. I am confident that the central government will also contribute the requisite resources to tackle this calamity. My heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone in Chennai who is grappling with the repercussions of this significant catastrophe."
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