Chennai airport faces flooding risks amid delayed drainage project

Chennai airport authorities are facing concerns regarding potential shutdowns during heavy rains due to delays in a critical stormwater drain construction project. The project, designed to prevent runway inundation, has only reached 60 per cent completion despite starting in June of last year.

Runway flooding occurs as water from the Tirusulam mountain, GST Road, and surrounding residential areas flows toward the Adyar river, passing through the airport grounds. Historically, these floods have forced the airport to suspend operations for one to two days annually, leading to flight cancellations, delays, and financial losses for airlines.

To address the issue, authorities are implementing a 4.3-km-long stormwater drain project costing Rs. 123 crore. The plan follows recommendations from IIT-Madras experts to redirect water toward the Adyar river and protect both the runway and the parking areas from stagnation.