November 12, 2025: The much-awaited cluster redevelopment project on Maharashtra State Transport (ST) land in Thane has hit a roadblock due to the unavailability of an alternative site for the transport depot, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said. The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) had planned to implement the cluster scheme on the land currently occupied by the Thane divisional office and the Khopat ST depot. However, the project has stalled as suitable land to relocate the depot has not been identified.
“The cluster scheme is for residents living in unauthorized and dangerous buildings. We fought for them. Therefore, the cluster scheme is important,” said Sarnaik, emphasizing the need to move forward with redevelopment while ensuring transport operations are not disrupted.
Speaking at a review meeting held at the Thane Municipal Corporation, Sarnaik stressed that the depot cannot be removed until an alternative location is provided. “Care must be taken so that passengers do not face any inconvenience,” he said, urging TMC to “immediately provide alternative land to the ST.”
During the meeting, TMC Commissioner Saurabh Rao clarified that it is not possible to allot the Balkum land to the transport department. The issue of alternative plots at Flower Valley and the Bata Compound also remains unresolved. Rao noted that the growing population in these areas makes it difficult to allocate a permanent site for the depot, though a temporary arrangement could be explored.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the slow progress, Sarnaik said, “The cluster issue in the Lokmanyanagar area has also not been resolved yet, and residents have not been informed about the scheme. They should be taken into confidence while making any decision.”
Source: The Free Press Journal
