Expedite ongoing civic works before monsoon onset, GCC Commissioner instructs officials

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Commissioner G.S. Sameeran has directed officials to expedite ongoing civic works and initiate pending projects during a review meeting at the Ripon Buildings.

Assessing Northeast monsoon precautionary measures on Saturday, the Commissioner ordered the desilting of stormwater drains, improvement of canals, and the pruning of precarious tree branches. As of July 15, GCC has constructed 1,016.25 kilometres (km) of stormwater drains against a target of 1,126 km, at an estimated cost of ₹5,127.40 crore. The civic body has removed 16,270 metric tonnes (MT) of silt and water hyacinth from major canals using amphibian vehicles and robotic excavators. Further, 68,281 of the city’s 1,09,975 silt catch pits have been cleaned.

Officials were instructed to maintain the readiness of high-capacity motor pumps, 215 relief centres, and community kitchens. The session evaluated the progress of infrastructure initiatives at the detailed project report and tender stages, including urban primary health centres, modern bus shelters, gig workers’ resting facilities, integrated sports complexes, and the restoration of 49 ponds completed at an estimated ₹214.02 crore. Directives were also issued to initiate strict action against unauthorised constructions and the commercial utilisation of residential buildings.