Chennai Dams Overflow After 27 Years: A Monsoon-Made Miracle

For the first time in 27 years, Chennai's chief dams have reached full capacity due to the northeast monsoon and cyclone Ditwah. Combined, six dams hold 12,273.40 mcft of water, 92.83% of capacity, compared to 10,068.42 mcft last year. Intense rainfall has replenished water levels significantly.

In a historic water influx, three major dams serving Chennai have reached their full capacity for the first time in nearly three decades, an official announced on Saturday. This unprecedented overflow is attributed to the rigorous northeast monsoon aided by cyclone Ditwah.

Currently, three dams—Poondi, Puzhal, and Chembarambakkam—are nearly at full capacity, fueled by recent intense rainfall. On December 12, all six dams collectively held 12,273.40 mcft of water, representing 92.83% of their total storage capacity. This marks a notable increase compared to last year's 10,068.42 mcft.

The Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board reported that Poondi and Puzhal dams have reached their full reservoir levels, while Chembarambakkam is at 99.37% capacity. The surge in water levels is reminiscent of 2015, when severe floods struck the region, illustrating the challenges of balancing urban water needs and natural weather events.

(With inputs from agencies.)