Prime Minister Gives Nod to ₹561.29 Crore Urban Flood Mitigation Project in Chennai

In the aftermath of cyclone Michuang wreaking havoc in Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the green light to a groundbreaking urban flood mitigation project, allocating ₹561.29 crore under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF). The initiative, titled the 'Integrated Urban Flood Management activities for Chennai Basin Project,' marks a significant step in addressing the aftermath of the cyclone and fortifying Chennai against future flooding.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accompanied by Tamil Nadu Minister for Finance & Human Resources Management Thangam Thenarasu and Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena, conducted an aerial survey of the cyclone-affected areas in and around Chennai, as reported by the Ministry of Defence.

Following the survey, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed reporters, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of the Central and state governments in responding effectively to the crisis. He highlighted Prime Minister Modi's assurance of full support to Tamil Nadu and the directive to release the central share of the second installment of State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) funds in advance. The central government had already released the first installment of the same amount to both Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Singh acknowledged the comprehensive involvement of Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other central agencies in relief and rescue operations, underscoring their dedication to restoring normalcy.

Expressing his concern, Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered prayers for the safety and well-being of those affected, reaffirming the Centre's support during this critical period. Shah noted the recurrent challenges faced by metropolitan cities, such as Chennai, with severe flooding occurring for the third time in the last eight years.

In response to the cyclone's impact on Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, Prime Minister Modi directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to expedite the release of the central share of the second installment of SDRF, providing ₹493.60 crore to Andhra Pradesh and ₹450 crore to Tamil Nadu. The first installment of the same amount had already been disbursed to both states, as per an official statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

HBL