Chennai’s Chembarambakkam Reservoir Witnesses Increased Water Release Amidst Rising Levels

In response to intermittent rains, water release from Chennai’s Chembarambakkam reservoir has been marginally increased to 200 cubic feet per second (cusecs) as of November 28, 2023. The reservoir, currently experiencing a steady inflow, has seen its water level rise to 22 feet, nearing its full capacity of 24 feet. Last month, the Water Resources Department took a precautionary measure by opening the reservoir’s shutter gates and releasing a minimum of 25 cusecs.

Now, with an inflow of approximately 452 cusecs from catchment areas, the discharge has been raised to 200 cusecs to manage water levels and prevent downstream flooding. The reservoir, covering 25.51 sq.km., presently holds 3,195 million cubic feet against its capacity of 3,645 mcft.

Authorities are closely monitoring water levels in other reservoirs crucial for Chennai’s drinking water supply, emphasizing precautions for residents in low-lying areas along the Adyar river, including Kundrathur and Tiruneermalai. The discharge rate will be adjusted based on ongoing rainfall and inflow conditions during the monsoon.