The Chennai Corporation’s proactive initiative to map vulnerable groups, such as persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and older persons in flood-prone areas, is a crucial step toward improving disaster preparedness during the northeast monsoon. With the mapping set to be completed by October 10, the civic body aims to ensure that the most vulnerable households are identified and supported during potential flood situations.
To achieve this, over 5,000 volunteers, including students from more than 100 colleges, have already registered to assist in the rescue and relief efforts. The Chennai Corporation has a target of enlisting 10,000 volunteers, who will be trained to provide critical support during the monsoon, such as delivering essential supplies and helping in evacuation efforts. These volunteers are being equipped with the skills to assist vulnerable groups in affected areas, especially those near rivers, lakes, and canals.
The vulnerability mapping, which covers around two lakh households across 3,196 roads, focuses on identifying the needs of groups like pregnant women, families with young children, senior citizens, and those with medical conditions.
Early results from the survey show that:
- 3.66 per cent of households need assistance for pregnant women during the monsoon.
- 5.76 per cent of households need support for women with children under two years old.
- 7.71 per cent of households have sick individuals who will require help during the rains.
The Corporation has also prepared a plan to increase the number of relief centres in the city’s 15 zones, based on the mapping results. Additionally, resources such as ambulances, boats, and rescue teams will be stationed in vulnerable localities, ensuring timely response for those in need. This well-structured approach is expected to significantly enhance the city’s flood response and minimise the risks faced by its most vulnerable residents during the upcoming monsoon season.
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