The Thane Police is set to expand its infrastructure with six new police stations, the creation of an additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) zone, and a proposal to recruit 1,200 more personnel. The move comes in response to increasing population pressure and rising policing demands across the region.
The new police stations are planned for Katai, Newali, and Diva, along with three locations in Bhiwandi—Mansarovar, Vanjarpatti, and Dapoda. Officials said these additions are aimed at strengthening law enforcement coverage in rapidly growing urban and peri-urban areas.
Shrikant Pathak, Joint Commissioner of Police (Administration), said the expansion was necessary due to ongoing urbanisation. “We have received approval for six new police stations and one new DCP zone. We have also proposed 1,200 more personnel to the state government. Subject to the availability of land and adequate staff, these stations will be made operational,” he said.
Authorities noted that areas such as Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Ulhasnagar–Ambernath, and Bhiwandi have experienced significant population growth, straining existing police infrastructure.
In Bhiwandi, the proposed stations are expected to reduce the burden on Narpoli, Shanti Nagar, Nizampura, and Bhoiwada police stations. The area’s transition from a traditional power loom hub to a logistics and warehousing centre has increased the complexity of policing needs.
Diva, which has a population exceeding 5 lakh, currently relies on a small police outpost under Mumbra Police Station. Residents often travel 10–14 km to register complaints, raising safety concerns, particularly along isolated stretches.
“The population of Diva has increased manifold, and maintaining law and order has become an added burden for our team. A full-fledged police station dedicated to Diva will help reduce crime and improve police response,” said Anil Shinde from Mumbra Police Station.
The Katai station will cater to large residential developments such as Lodha Palava and nearby villages. In contrast, the Newali station will serve remote and forested areas across eastern Kalyan, Ulhasnagar, and Ambernath.
Sachin Gore, DCP Zone 4, said, “The new police station in Newali will greatly benefit villagers from areas such as Haji Malang and Newali, who currently depend on the Hill Line Police Station, which covers a radius of over 22 km.”
Source: Hindustan Times
