August 16, 2025: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced on Thursday that the Thane Metro will commence its trial run in September on a 10.30-kilometre stretch, with commercial services expected to start by December. Speaking at the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony at the Thane Collector’s Office, Shinde described the current era as India’s “Amrit Kaal” — a period of transformation where the sacrifices of freedom fighters must be honoured.
He lauded India’s standing as one of the world’s top four economies and reiterated the government’s vision of becoming a fully developed nation. Shinde also praised the success of Operation Sindoor, in which six enemy aircraft were downed, asserting that India would never succumb to terrorism or hostile forces. “There is only one lion in the country — Prime Minister Narendra Modi — and our armed forces deserve a triple salute,” he declared.
Highlighting Maharashtra’s USD 1.5 trillion economic potential, Shinde underlined Thane’s role as a major contributor. He pointed to Rs 3,000 crore in development funds, Rs 8.8 lakh crore in investments secured at Davos, and major infrastructure projects including the Thane–Borivali Tunnel, Coastal Highway, and housing schemes for police, women, and students.
He further noted that the Rs 76,000 crore Vadhavan Port project would become India’s largest, while the Navi Mumbai International Airport is scheduled to open within three months. Later in the day, Shinde inaugurated the refurbished Gadkari Rangayatan, a cultural landmark originally built in 1977 under Bal Thackeray’s initiative. The venue, described by Shinde as the “heart” and “Mukutmani” of Thane, has undergone a Rs 36 crore facelift with modern facilities and an international-standard café.
Shinde also announced plans for an elevated freeway from Wadala to Gaimukh linking to the Western Expressway, a “Hapus Park” inspired by Justice Abhay Oka, and green urban initiatives. He urged political leaders to put development above party lines to deliver meaningful progress.
Source: Times Of India
