This refers to the editorial, “After Chennai deluge, the many challenges” (December 4). What is happening in Chennai is a result of poor urban planning, improper civic amenities and disrespect for the environment. Chennai is bearing the brunt of cut-throat competition, prevalent among larger cities, to invite big-time investors on a war-footing — to build dream cities. Every city wants to become a Singapore or Mumbai. The resultant rat race to put massive infrastructure in place, has given rise to a profitable real estate business. Increasing migration to cities has not helped. Inevitably, the proliferation of buildings on lands, meant to reclaim rivers has taken its toll.
The water bodies could not hold the gush of water and the city suffered. Inefficient garbage disposal led to the blockage of drains and rivers have been choked with waste and silt. Though rescue operations are in full swing, rehabilitation and repair will take time. The truth remains that, if our Governments do not take lessons from this disaster, more cities will suffer a similar fate.