News Brief
Shinde Unveils Thane Development Plan With Focus On Traffic, Health And Flood Relief
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde (File Photo)
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced a wide-ranging development blueprint for Thane district, centred on easing traffic congestion, modernising healthcare and strengthening flood relief measures, PTI reported.
Chairing a district planning committee meeting at the collector’s office, Shinde who also serves as the guardian minister of Thane, said the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) will form an expert panel to examine traffic bottlenecks across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and devise a permanent solution.
“Drone and AI-based traffic management systems will be implemented to control congestion. The MMRDA's expert panel will ensure short, medium, and long-term measures in coordination between all agencies to provide lasting relief to commuters,” he was quoted as saying.
The meeting was attended by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, MPs, MLAs, MLCs, senior government officials and municipal chiefs from Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivli, Mira-Bhayander, Bhiwandi and Ulhasnagar.
Shinde reviewed the district’s annual plan, noting that in 2024–25, Rs 1,167.37 crore had been allocated, of which 99.98 per cent was utilised. For 2025–26, Rs 1,252.99 crore has been earmarked, with 23 per cent spent by August. He directed agencies to ensure full utilisation this year.
Other initiatives include the development of 39 tourist spots, the launch of the ‘Explore Thane’ app, rooftop solar projects for government offices, and taluka-level sports complexes.
Major works also cover the Rs 80 crore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Shaktipeeth and Maradepada projects, expansion of natural farming, plans to raise Chikhali Dam’s height, ensure water supply to Ulhasnagar, and push ahead with rehabilitation linked to the Kalu Dam.
