Mastering the Flow: The SCADA Revolution Begins in Chennai.

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has inaugurated a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in Chennai, establishing a centralised platform for managing key reservoirs, including Chembarambakkam, Red Hills and Poondi.

The system automates sluice gate operations and enables officials to monitor water storage levels, inflows and discharges from a central control room. As part of the project, an Integrated Reservoir Management Centre covering 1,088 square metres has been set up in Chennai, along with sub-control rooms at each reservoir. By leveraging real-time data, authorities can forecast flood inflows during the monsoon and remotely operate sluice gates, strengthening water management and disaster preparedness.

The initiative streamlines reservoir operations while enhancing efficiency, safety and coordination through centralised monitoring. Looking ahead, the Tamil Nadu government plans to extend the SCADA network to around 90 dams across the state, creating a comprehensive, technology-driven reservoir management system. Officials said the project marks a major step toward modernising water infrastructure and improving flood control mechanisms.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.