September 27, 2025: Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday announced that Thane district will soon see the rollout of a comprehensive development plan aimed at tackling key challenges including traffic congestion, flood relief, healthcare, education, renewable energy, tourism, and employment creation.
Speaking at a meeting of the Thane District Planning Committee, held at Planning Bhavan, Shinde emphasised that the initiative would provide holistic growth for the district. Officials said that the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has appointed an expert panel to study traffic bottlenecks across the region and recommend permanent solutions.
The review meeting assessed progress on upgrading primary health centres into smart health centres and converting local schools into smart schools, with funding to be mobilised through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and public participation. Approval was also given for the introduction of drone- and AI-based traffic management systems and rooftop solar projects for government buildings.
Immediate relief has been assured for flood-affected areas, including the repair of damaged roads, bridges, and schools. Water supply improvements through the Chikhali Dam and Ulhas River projects were also discussed. The plan further highlighted the promotion of natural farming methods, increasing agricultural productivity, and extending stronger support to local farmers.
Shinde underlined the importance of skill development programmes, educational opportunities, tourism promotion, and infrastructure upgrades for sustainable growth. At the meeting, the “Seva Samvad” citizen feedback platform, developed by District Collector Dr Shrikrishna Panchal, was inaugurated to ensure faster and more transparent governance.
Officials have been directed to strengthen inter-departmental coordination, implement both short- and long-term measures, and ensure the efficient use of district budgets, with priority accorded to schemes in health, education, tourism, and livelihoods.
Source: The Indian Express
