Chapter IX, Macro Drainage System in CMA
Chapter IX, Macro Drainage System in CMA, is a planning guidance chapter describing the region’s rivers, water bodies, flood risks, drainage responsibilities and land use strategies. The supplied text does not identify an issuing department, order number or date, but it states that the land use plan protects drainage features, identifies flood-prone areas and restricts unsuitable development in sensitive locations.
What the chapter covers
Chapter IX, Macro Drainage System in CMA, describes the regional drainage network formed by the Kosasthalaiyar, Cooum and Adyar rivers, together with major tanks, reservoirs, canals and other water bodies. It explains that most rainfall occurs between October and December and that developed and settled areas experience regular flooding despite the extensive drainage and water storage network.
The chapter attributes flooding to:
- Silted waterways and obstructions caused by encroachments and structures.
- Development of tank areas and anicuts as residential or institutional neighbourhoods.
- Geological conditions, particularly in the south-west, that limit water infiltration.
- Inadequate or inoperative local drainage infrastructure in low-lying areas.
Who may be affected
Chapter IX, Macro Drainage System in CMA, is relevant to property buyers, owners and developers near rivers, tanks, reservoirs, flood plains, the Pallikkaranai swamp and the Red Hills catchment area. The land use plan identifies important macro drainage features, conservation areas and locations subject to annual flooding.
Development other than suitable open-space uses is to be prohibited or severely restricted in specified sensitive areas, including the Pallikkaranai swamp and Red Hills catchment area. The Development Regulations incorporate parameters intended to protect waterways and water bodies from undesirable development. Lakes and water bodies are to be protected from new encroachments, while existing encroachments are proposed for removal so that the water bodies can be restored to their original state.
Drainage proposals and responsibilities
Chapter IX, Macro Drainage System in CMA, describes a Pallikkaranai drainage study intended to protect approximately 30 sq.km. through a cut-off drain, three interceptor drains and an arterial drain. The northern part of the existing swamp would continue to face inundation from run-off entering from the north and west.
The chapter assigns the following responsibilities:
- The Public Works Department is the principal stakeholder for macro drainage and is proposed as the nodal agency for planning and maintaining water bodies and preventing encroachments.
- Chennai Corporation and Metrowater have some transferred responsibilities.
- The Revenue Department manages lands covered by waterways and reservoirs.
- Municipal corporations, municipalities and other local bodies are responsible for micro drainage and storm water drainage.
A Shelter and Infrastructure Committee, including government and non-government stakeholders and experts, is proposed to monitor implementation and meet at least once every three months.
This summary is generated from the source document to help you find what is relevant. The PDF above is authoritative. For advice on your own property, use LandLens One or speak to a qualified professional.
Common questions
Could this chapter affect development near Pallikkaranai swamp?
Yes. The land use plan identifies Pallikkaranai swamp as an area where development other than appropriate open-space uses must be prohibited or severely restricted.
Does the chapter require protection of lakes and water bodies from encroachment?
Yes. It states that lakes and water bodies need protection from encroachments and that existing encroachments should be removed to restore the water bodies to their original state.
Who is responsible for local storm water drainage?
Municipal corporations, municipalities and other local bodies are responsible for micro drainage and storm water drainage. Local bodies may prepare micro drainage plans in consultation with the Public Works Department.
Does the chapter identify areas that flood every year?
Yes. The land use plan identifies critical areas subject to annual flooding so that local bodies can undertake remediation measures in collaboration with the Public Works Department.
