As Diwali festivities light up India, Chennai is witnessing heavy rainfall and waterlogging in several parts of the city. The downpour, which began late Monday night, intensified on Tuesday morning, dampening holiday preparations but also raising safety concerns for residents.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin personally reviewed the city’s readiness amid rising rainfall across Tamil Nadu. He directed officials to ensure quick water drainage, uninterrupted electricity supply, and emergency relief where required. The early showers, coinciding with the Diwali season, have already caused slow traffic, flooded roads, and power cuts in some neighbourhoods.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, started across Tamil Nadu today with prayers, sweets, and fireworks. However, the festival spirit has been met with grey skies and heavy showers. In areas like T Nagar, Velachery, and Tambaram, rainwater reached knee-level in some streets, forcing residents to stay indoors.

Shopkeepers had prepared for large crowds over the festive week. But the rains kept shoppers away from markets, particularly in busy areas such as Parry’s Corner and Pondy Bazaar. Despite the wet weather, families continued lighting diyas at home, sharing sweets, and connecting online to send Diwali greetings.

“The rain brought relief from heat but also spoiled our fireworks plan,” said Sangeetha, a resident of Adyar. “Our family decided to enjoy a quiet Diwali indoors this year.”

Chief Minister Stalin, along with senior disaster management officials, held an emergency review on Tuesday morning at the Secretariat. He instructed the Greater Chennai Corporation, police, and electricity board to remain on round-the-clock duty during the festive period.

Over 160 pumps have been deployed across flood-prone areas to drain excess water. Additional relief centres have been set up, equipped with food and medical supplies. The city’s control rooms are operational 24/7 to respond to flood or power emergency calls.

CM Stalin also appealed to residents to avoid venturing into flooded areas and to report any incidents directly to local disaster help desks. In a statement, he emphasised that “safety is the top priority this Diwali,” promising that all measures are being taken to prevent any repeat of Chennai’s past flood crises.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai, the city is likely to experience moderate to heavy rainfall over the next two days due to the presence of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal. Meteorologists have warned fishermen not to venture into the sea and advised citizens to stay alert.

The rain is expected to spread over coastal districts including Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Cuddalore. Authorities have already begun desilting stormwater drains to prevent overflowing and have kept medical teams on standby.

“We are monitoring the system closely. Citizens should avoid unnecessary travel,” said an RMC official, predicting that showers may ease after Thursday.

Social media is filled with videos showing flooded streets and slow-moving vehicles in the city. While some express disappointment over a “rainy Diwali,” others welcome the cool breeze after weeks of humid weather.

Residents are urged to:

• Keep electronic devices and valuables away from damp or flooded areas.

• Avoid wading through rainwater due to open manholes.

• Stay tuned to official updates from the Chennai Corporation and RMC.

Meanwhile, volunteers from youth groups and NGOs have joined the city’s emergency teams to help distribute food and blankets to affected families.

As the rains continue, Chennai is celebrating Diwali differently this year — with caution, care, and community spirit. Bright diyas still glow in most homes, symbolising hope amid stormy skies. The government remains on high alert to ensure that joy, not worry, defines the city’s festival of lights.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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