ENHANCING SPONGINESS BY DESIGN: FOR FLOOD PRONE AREAS AROUND VELACHERY LAKE

Abstract

Urban flooding has become a prominent prevailing issue in the Indian cities which cause severe damages to infrastructure and property and loss of lives, necessitating innovative approaches to mitigate its impact. This study majorly focusses on Velachery neighbourhood within Adyar zone of Chennai, aiming to enhance the sponginess in the flood prone area of the Velachery urban fabric through design solutions and sponge measures. The objectives of this research are multifaceted. Firstly, it involves a comprehensive review of various concepts and practices associated with assessing sponginess to draw appropriate design elements at various scale of implementation to enhance the sponginess network within flood prone zone. Secondly, utilizing flood susceptibility mapping, the study delves into the current context of urban flooding in the broader Adyar region, identifying potential vulnerable zone within it. Thirdly, a thorough investigation into the physical and socio-cultural aspects of the Velachery Lake region is conducted to understand the urban fabric of the built environment to facilitate the effective implementation of sponginess measures. Finally, the study proposes design solutions tailored to enhance sponginess in flood-prone areas surrounding Velachery Lake to enhance the sponginess as a measure to mitigate urban flooding. By addressing these objectives, this research seeks to contribute to the development of sustainable flood management strategies in urban environments, thereby fostering greater resilience and adaptability to future flood events.