Work under Adyar river in Chennai to begin from Sept Breakthrough

Chennai’s Kaveri tunnel boring machine will begin boring a 400-meter-long tunnel under the Adyar river near Greenways Road metro station next month, extending 1.2 km from the current 120-meter distance. Chennai, often referred to as the “Gateway to South India,” is set to witness a transformative infrastructure and environmental initiative. The long-awaited restoration and infrastructure improvement work under the Adyar River will commence this September. The project aims to enhance flood management, improve water quality, and create a sustainable ecosystem that will benefit the city’s residents and environment for decades to come. This step is part of the broader vision to rejuvenate the river and its surrounding landscapes.

Background of the Adyar River Project

The Adyar River, stretching over 42 kilometres, originates from Chembarambakkam Lake and flows through Chennai before meeting the Bay of Bengal. Over the years, industrial discharge, untreated sewage, and encroachments have severely degraded the river’s ecosystem. The government has been working on phased projects to revive the river, including clearing encroachments, installing sewage treatment plants, and restoring wetlands.
For more on Chennai’s river restoration history. (Ramsar Convention)

Scope of the September Project

The upcoming work scheduled to begin in September will focus on:

• Strengthening riverbanks to prevent erosion and manage water flow during monsoons.
• Installing flood protection mechanisms to safeguard residential and commercial areas near the river.
• Upgrading sewage and drainage systems to ensure untreated waste does not enter the water body.
• Constructing pedestrian pathways and green belts along certain stretches to promote public use and eco-tourism.

Environmental Impact and Benefits

The Adyar River restoration will have far-reaching benefits:

1. Flood Mitigation – Chennai has faced severe flooding in recent years, especially during the 2015 floods. Strengthening embankments and improving drainage will reduce such risks.
2. Biodiversity Revival – Restoring wetlands and water quality will help native plant and aquatic species thrive.
3. Air and Water Quality Improvement – Better waste management will reduce pollution levels, benefiting public health.
4. Urban Cooling Effect – Increased greenery and open spaces along the river will help lower urban heat island effects.

Economic and Social Advantages

Beyond environmental improvements, the project will bring economic gains:

• Boost to Tourism – Walkways, parks, and riverfront activities will attract visitors.
• Real Estate Appreciation – Cleaner surroundings and improved infrastructure often lead to increased property values.
• Job Creation – Construction, maintenance, and eco-tourism initiatives will generate employment opportunities.

Challenges and Implementation Strategy

The Adyar River project faces certain challenges:

• Relocation of Encroachments – Ensuring fair rehabilitation for affected residents.
• Continuous Waste Management – Preventing future dumping of untreated sewage or industrial effluents.
• Funding and Timelines – Managing project costs without delays.

Construction materials, and community engagement programs will play a central role. Authorities have emphasized the need for citizen participation to ensure the river’s long-term health. Awareness drives, community clean-up events, and school-level environmental education will be part of the program. The public is also encouraged to report illegal waste dumping or encroachments via official helplines and mobile apps. Once completed, the Adyar River will stand as a symbol of Chennai’s commitment to sustainable urban growth. The September launch marks a decisive turning point in reversing decades of environmental neglect. With careful planning, technological integration, and public involvement, the river could soon transform from a neglected waterway into a vibrant ecological and social hub. (Infrastructure Development)