Tiruchi Corporation has proposed strengthening key drainage channels across the city to reduce water stagnation and inundation in vulnerable low-lying areas during heavy rainfall.

The civic body has allocated ₹100 crore in its budget to upgrade major drainage infrastructure and implement flood mitigation measures in areas that have frequently experienced waterlogging during intense rain spells.

According to Corporation officials, the proposed works will focus on strengthening major waterways and drainage networks, including the Kottai Vaikal, Rettai Vaikal, Uyyakondan Canal, and the Kudamurutti River, which play a crucial role in carrying surplus rainwater from various parts of the city.

The Kottai Vaikal and Rettai Vaikal serve as vital outlets for stormwater generated in areas such as Chathiram Bus Stand, Chinthamani, Karur Road, Devathanam, and Palakkarai. Similarly, the Kudamurutti River is a key drainage channel for localities along Vayalur Road, including Shanmuga Nagar and M.M. Nagar, which have witnessed inundation during periods of heavy rainfall due to river overflow.

As part of the project, the Corporation has proposed desilting of major canals, strengthening of embankments, and removal of encroachments wherever required to facilitate the free and uninterrupted flow of rainwater. Construction of flood protection walls along vulnerable stretches of canals where breaches and overflow incidents have been reported in the past is also planned.

Preparation of a detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed works will be taken up and will be submitted to the State government for approval, an official said.

Meanwhile, the civic body has planned to construct flood protection walls along five major canals at a total cost of ₹5.68 crore. It includes Butterworth Vaikal in Ward 13 and Kottai Vaikal in Ward 12 at ₹83 lakh, S.S Nagar Vaikal in Ward 15 and Mathura Thottam Vaikal at a cost of ₹2.62 crore, and Rettai Vaikal in Ward 15 at ₹2.23 crore. Of the total project cost, ₹3.40 crore will be funded under the Capital Grant Fund 2025-26, while the remaining ₹2.28 crore will be met from the Corporation Fund.