Thane Municipal Corporation Prioritizes Road Repairs and Public Transport Boost
In a groundbreaking move, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has shifted its focus to prioritize road repairs and public transport enhancements in an effort to improve the daily lives of its residents. This decision, announced during the budget presentation by TMC Commissioner Saurabh Rao, marks a significant shift in governance that aims to ensure that all roads in the city, regardless of jurisdiction, receive timely maintenance.
Addressing Citizen Needs Over Bureaucratic Hurdles
The decision to take full responsibility for road repairs comes after the TMC acknowledged the direct impact of poor road conditions on the lives of Thane residents. Through extensive discussions with relevant authorities and multiple meetings with residents, particularly those from the Ghodbunder area, where inadequate road construction has led to severe traffic congestion, the TMC made the commitment to prioritize citizen needs over bureaucratic obstacles.
During the budget presentation, Commissioner Saurabh Rao unveiled the TMC’s ₹5,645 crore budget for the financial year 2025-26, with a strong emphasis on urban infrastructure, health, sanitation, education, and environmental sustainability. A significant portion of the budget was allocated to road repairs and public transport improvements, reflecting the TMC’s dedication to enhancing the overall quality of life in Thane.
Boosting Public Transport and Healthcare
To address road damage resulting from utility work, ₹20 crore was allocated for restoration efforts, while public transport received a significant boost with ₹57 crore raised through development charges. The introduction of 160 electric buses aims to improve mobility and reduce pollution in the city. Commissioner Saurabh Rao emphasized that the budget aims to transform Thane into a more liveable, sustainable, and citizen-friendly city, all while maintaining financial prudence.
In addition to infrastructure and transportation upgrades, the healthcare sector in Thane saw substantial investments in the budget. A total of ₹75 crore was allotted for revamping the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital, with an additional ₹58 crore earmarked for land acquisition for a new hospital in Diva. Furthermore, ₹11 crore was allocated for renovations to maternity hospitals, and a free cataract surgery program for economically disadvantaged residents was announced.
Empowering Communities and Fostering Sustainability
Beyond infrastructure and healthcare, the TMC’s budget also prioritized community empowerment and environmental sustainability. Mobile sanitation units will be established using repurposed buses operated by self-help groups. Additionally, ₹5 crore was allocated for a solid waste processing plant in Atkoli, Bhiwandi, and a biogas plant to process organic waste. Conservation efforts, such as mangrove preservation and lake restoration, received dedicated funding to promote environmental conservation in the city.
Investing in Education and Social Welfare
The budget also focused on enhancing educational opportunities and promoting social welfare initiatives in Thane. A total of ₹50 crore was designated to upgrade 62 municipal schools with infrastructure improvements, teacher training, and the integration of digital and AI-based learning tools. Other allocations included ₹2 crore for senior citizen centers, ₹17 crore for disability support schemes, ₹15 lakh for LGBTQ+ welfare programs, and ₹15 crore for women’s self-defense programs and menstrual health awareness.
By prioritizing road repairs, public transport enhancements, healthcare investments, community empowerment, environmental conservation, and educational improvements, the TMC’s budget for the financial year 2025-26 demonstrates a holistic approach to governance that aims to improve the overall quality of life for residents in Thane. Through these strategic allocations and initiatives, the TMC is poised to make a lasting impact on the city’s infrastructure, public services, and community well-being.
