Clogged drains, monsoon bring flooding fear to Madurai

MADURAI: Though officials keep conducting monsoon preparedness meetings regularly, not all drainage channels are ready to handle any flood like situation in the city and outskirts. Most of the channels are clogged with garbage and some of the major channels in the outskirts are full of plants which is a major concern during heavy rain.
Madurai city has 13 major drainage channels which were once used for irrigation of agricultural lands in the outskirts.The city corporation has turned them into concrete channels in recent years. However, most of these channels are heavily clogged with plastic and sewage waste. For instance, the Panthalkudi channel that carries excess water from Sellur tank is chocked after work on AV Bridge commenced. Sellur tank has flooded several times in the past because excess water from Sathayaru dam under Sirumalai Hills flows into the tank.
Presently, Madurai city is not able to manage water inundation in key areas even during moderate rainfall. Areas like Periyar, Arapalayam, Masi streets, Kamarajar Salai are all clogged with rain water even after a brief spell. "We are left to wonder if this city can face one to two hours of non-stop rain. Most drainage channels are full of garbage or sewage," said M Muthukrishnan from Anupanadi.
Kiruthamal River, that runs around the city, is blocked in the outskirts. Supply lines to Madakulam channel on the outskirts is full of garbage and plant growth. These major water bodies which are supposed to receive rain water may not get any due to blockage.
As of now, public works department officials are clearing up all agricultural channels in the district's Periyar Irrigation System.