Chennai Poll Canvas: Velachery | Development vs recurring flood woes

In this episode, we focus on Velachery, a rapidly urbanised constituency that continues to grapple with flooding and infrastructure challenges. Residents are demanding urgent desilting of the Velachery lake, pointing out that shrinking water bodies, encroachments, and inadequate drainage systems have worsened flooding over the years. The area, being low-lying, naturally collects rainwater, making proper lake maintenance and stormwater management critical. While infrastructure projects and urban expansion have transformed the locality, recurring waterlogging, traffic congestion, and gaps in civic planning remain key concerns. As Velachery heads into the 2026 elections, the focus is clear — sustainable urban planning and long-term solutions to flooding.