Urgent Call: Institute of Mathematical Sciences Pleads with GCC to Fast-Track Lifesaving Flood Mitigation Ahead of Devastating NE Monsoon
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is gearing up for the northeast monsoon, expected in a few months, by addressing petitions from national research institutions seeking urgent flood mitigation measures. These institutions fear damage to essential files, research books, and documents due to potential flooding. The city’s recent increase in large-scale construction has left many green-capped areas vulnerable to such natural occurrences.
The Institute of Mathematical Sciences in Taramani, an autonomous body under the Department of Atomic Energy, has specifically called for pre-monsoon preparations on Fourth Cross Road. The request includes enhancing connectivity between the Buckingham Canal culvert and a new storm-water drain near Indira Nagar MRTS station on Rajiv Gandhi Salai to prevent waterlogging. The institute experienced severe flooding for the first time during Cyclone Michaung in December 2023, resulting in significant damage to valuable research materials, including books and documents. Despite their preventive measures, floodwaters infiltrated key facilities like their electrical substation and library.
Several other academic institutions on the same road—such as the MGR Government Film and Television Institute, the Institute of Hotel Management and Board of Apprenticeship Training, Dr. Dharmambal Government Polytechnic College for Women, Directorate of Technical Education, and the State Institute of Commerce and Education—were similarly affected by flooding.
Given the critical role these institutions play in fundamental research and higher education outreach, the timely execution of flood mitigation projects is paramount. IIT-Madras has also approached the GCC for flood control measures within its campus to prevent similar disruptions.
With these preparations, the GCC aims to safeguard the infrastructural integrity and academic operations of these vital research centers as the monsoon season approaches.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/institute-of-mathematical-sciences-asks-gcc-to-expedite-flood-mitigation-projects-ahead-of-ne-monsoon/article68375041.ece
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