Chennai is called the city of paradox: For 10 months, it suffers from water scarcity, and for the remaining 2 months, water scares the city. This irony is especially true for the neighbourhood of Karpagam Gardens, Adyar.
Over the past few years, this area has become increasingly flood-prone, with even a short spell of rain leading to waterlogging. “During monsoons, we have water up to at least 3-4 feet, and it takes around 48 – 72 hours to recede. Houses on the ground floor have borne the maximum brunt due to property damage each year,” points out Bhuvaneswari, Secretary of Karpagam Gardens Welfare Association.
Ironically, over the past few months, residents have observed a drastic decrease in groundwater levels. Wells that were accessible at 4 feet last year now show water levels as low as 12-14 feet, despite recent city-wide rains that have filled the city’s reservoirs.
This receding groundwater, coupled with an inconsistent Metro Water supply, has triggered widespread panic. “CMWSSB provides no notification if there’s a supply issue. It is only when we approach the AE that he informs us about it, along with an assurance of a vague ‘soon’ restoration. On such dire days, we do not even get metro water lorry supply due to a surge in demand,” elaborates Bhuvaneswari.
Meanwhile, the stormwater drain (SWD) on 1st Link Road is currently flowing with crystal-clear water (the source of which is yet to be ascertained), blocking the flow from the main street and causing stagnant water in adjacent stormwater drains. Residents also look forward to an increased capacity of SWD beyond Karpagam Gardens, so that there is no flooding in the locality.
The residents have appealed to the Corporation multiple times, but they are yet to ascertain the cause. Recently, they have also appealed to the Regional Deputy Commissioner (South), who has promised to investigate. The residents request the authorities to take preventive measures before the monsoon intensifies.
