The Water Resources Department, led by Minister N. Anand, has kicked off a special desilting operation across Chennai’s major waterways with the help of NGOs and CSR partners. The drive aims to boost channel capacity and cut flood risk before the upcoming northeast monsoon.

Key Takeaways

  • Minister N. Anand inspected desilting work on the Cooum River
  • NGOs and CSR funds are supporting multiple waterway projects
  • All works are to be completed before the northeast monsoon

The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) inaugurated a special desilting drive on Monday, July 27, 2026, targeting several stretches of Chennai’s waterways. Rural Development and Water Resources Minister N. Anand launched the initiative with an on‑site inspection of the Cooum River near Koyambedu.

In partnership with NGOs such as Exnora International and corporate CSR programmes, the department will clear silt from the Cooum, Adyar, Buckingham Canal, and the Velachery‑Narayanapuram lakes over the next two to three months. Exnora’s President Senthur Pari highlighted that the department is providing fuel support for the machinery deployed.

Minister Anand arrived on a two‑wheeler to avoid traffic congestion and later inspected works at Okkiam Maduvu. Senior officials, including Principal Secretary Satyabrata Sahoo, and elected representatives were present at the launch.

Citizen group Korattur Aeri Pathukappu Makkal Iyakkam (KAPMI) submitted a petition to declare Korattur Lake a bird sanctuary and demanded a comprehensive rejuvenation of the lake, which hosts resident and migratory birds. Multiple voluntary organisations urged the government to set up an inter‑departmental coordination committee to tackle sewage pollution and indiscriminate dumping in the waterways.

Historical Background

WRD conducts annual desilting as part of monsoon preparedness. Last year’s operations cost nearly ₹38 crore, underscoring the financial commitment required to keep Chennai’s water bodies functional and flood‑resilient.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that proactive desilting not only reduces flood risk but also improves groundwater recharge, directly benefiting Chennai’s rapidly growing population and its industrial zones.

“Removing silt increases channel capacity and dramatically lowers flood probability,” says water‑resource expert Dr. Raman Chakravarti.
Did You Know?: The 2015 Chennai floods claimed over 1,500 lives, highlighting the critical need for regular waterway maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When will the desilting work be completed?
A: The department aims to finish the cleaning of all major waterways within two to three months, ahead of the northeast monsoon.

Q2: Which NGOs are involved in the drive?
A: Exnora International is the lead partner, supported by several local environmental groups and CSR initiatives.