August 2, 2025: In a stark revelation of rural neglect, Thane Zilla Parishad CEO Rohan Ghuge’s unannounced visit to two tribal hamlets in Shahapur taluka exposed the severe lack of basic infrastructure just 50 km from the district headquarters. Last Wednesday, Ghuge travelled to Dapurmal and Khorgadewadi—home to over 300 residents—where he found no dedicated water supply, poor road access, and limited educational facilities.
Although aware of the area’s issues, Ghuge was taken aback by the worsening conditions. His team had to abandon their vehicles at the foothills due to the absence of motorable roads. They then trekked 5 km on a steep, rain-soaked trail through dense fog, slush, and strong winds, climbing over 500 feet to reach the hamlets. “There is no proper road, only a forest pathway winding through valleys and streams,” noted B.H. Rathod, Shahapur Block Development Officer.
For locals, this arduous journey is part of daily life. “We walk miles for drinking water, even though Mumbai’s reservoirs are nearby. Our pucca homes under the PM Aawas Yojana can’t be built until materials arrive. Children walk hours to school, and during medical emergencies, we carry the sick and pregnant women in slings,” a resident told Ghuge.
Witnessing these hardships first-hand, Ghuge directed immediate action—planning a school structure, water pipeline connection, and a motorable road in coordination with the forest department. “We’re committed to ensuring govt schemes don’t stay on paper. Basic infrastructure is a right, not a privilege,” he stated.
The visit has raised hopes among villagers, many of whom said this was the first time a senior official had braved the challenging terrain to reach them. For residents, Ghuge’s presence marks the beginning of long-awaited change.
Source: The Times of India
