The proposed Thane Metro Ring Route, designed to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion across the city’s western belt, is increasingly drawing criticism from residents, political leaders, farmers, and environmental groups. The Rs 12,200-crore project, backed by central and state governments, is expected to span 29 km with 22 stations along Thane’s periphery. However, opposition is growing even before construction begins.
Residents along Ghodbunder Road have raised strong objections, arguing that placing metro stations in already dense residential zones could aggravate congestion rather than ease it. A recent meeting between local residents, Maha Metro officials, and representatives from housing societies such as Hiranandani Meadows, Rodas, Rutu Estate, and Hiranandani Estate highlighted these concerns. Maha Metro Managing Director Shravan Hardikar and senior officials were also present.
MLA Sanjay Kelkar noted the concerns raised by locals, stating, “I have instructed Maha Metro officials to conduct an on-site inspection and find a solution in the public interest,” as residents warned that schools, hospitals, and heavy daily movement in these areas could be further disrupted.
Residents like Girish Patil questioned the necessity of the project altogether, arguing that existing infrastructure is sufficient. “We don’t want this metro. We already have internal roads, an upcoming metro that is nearly complete, and Ghodbunder Road has been expanded by merging the service roads. Most residential areas are a maximum of 2–3 km from Ghodbunder Road and Metro Line 4 (Wadala-Kasarwadavali), and about 1 km from the Yeoor jungle to the west. These distances can be easily covered by road. The government is making decisions without consulting locals and wasting public money,” he said.
Political opposition has also intensified. NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) district president Manoj Pradhan questioned the project’s financial viability, stating, “Is there really a need for a Rs 12,200-crore ring route metro for Thane? Roads are already shrinking due to ongoing metro work. Why introduce another similar project?” He suggested diverting funds to electric buses and strengthening public transport instead, while also raising concerns about debt repayment, noting that 37% of the project cost will be loan-funded.
Farmers have objected to the proposed acquisition of 44 acres for a car depot, fearing displacement. Environmental groups have also flagged concerns over the planned cutting of around 3,000 trees between Anand Nagar and Saket, warning of long-term ecological damage and loss of green cover that residents associate with Thane’s livability.
Source: Hindustan Times
