Flood-prone areas to be monitored using drones in Chennai

Residents in low-lying and flood-prone neighbourhoods across Chennai could be monitored more closely during the Northeast monsoon, with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) planning to deploy drones across all 15 zones for 30 days, to help officials assess conditions on the ground.The initiative is intended to help civic officials keep track of vulnerable locations during periods of heavy rain and improve coordination of response measures. Aerial footage will allow officials to assess the situation in areas that may be difficult to monitor from the ground and identify locations requiring attention.Under the proposed arrangement, one drone and a trained operating team will be stationed in each of the city’s 15 zones, covering the northern, central, and southern regions. The teams will coordinate with zonal officials on the locations to be monitored and the timing of operations, according to officials.Live video feeds will be made available to designated GCC officials, while recorded footage will be handed over for subsequent assessment. The recordings will include details such as the date, time, zone, and location, wherever available.The footage is expected to support officials in assessing ground conditions in vulnerable neighbourhoods and in coordinating their response during the monsoon. The deployment will cover 30 days, with the operating teams required to follow the locations and priorities identified by GCC officials. Published - November 15, 2026 12:35 am IST