Chennai, 29 October (H.S.) : Residents of Nathamedu village in Tiruninravur, Tiruvallur district, continue to suffer from perennial waterlogging, a direct consequence of the nearby Nathamedu lake overflowing during the monsoon season.

The persistent inundation has created such dire living conditions that many families are now forced to temporarily abandon their homes and move to safer rental properties in other areas.

Of the approximately 160 families in the area, about 30 are severely affected, with others fearing that continued rainfall will eventually flood their homes too.

Residents described the distress of being trapped, with one elderly resident, Rajeswari, explaining that she fears water entering her dilapidated, one-room house at night, forcing her to seek refuge at a neighbour's place.

The community also faces the peril of navigating waterlogged streets after dark due to poor lighting. Following an inspection on Tuesday, Tiruvallur district collector M. Prathap addressed the media, outlining the structural challenges of the area. He stated that the houses are constructed in the middle of what is geographically a lake, which leaves “no option to pump the water out.”

As immediate measures to provide relief, officials confirmed that sluice gates have been opened to drain water where possible, and 20 of the most affected families were successfully relocated to shelter homes and provided with essential necessities.

Collector Prathap added that the long-term solution is to identify alternative patta land and execute the permanent relocation of the residents once the monsoon season subsides and the area is safe for planning and construction.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary