The Thane municipal administration is formulating a comprehensive plan worth Rs 350 crore to replace the aging and deteriorated drain lines beneath the roads of old Thane city. This announcement was made by BJP MLA Sanjay Kelkar during a citizen meeting held this week.
Addressing Recurring Sewer Issues
Kelkar highlighted that the project aims to resolve the persistent problem of overflowing sewers and to meet the demands of the growing population in key areas such as Naupada, Vartak Nagar, and Panchpakhadi. The existing sewerage pipelines in old Thane are approximately 50 years old and have fallen into a dilapidated state. These outdated lines are inadequate for the current population increase, leading to multiple difficulties for residents, including health hazards from overflowing drains. Kelkar emphasized the urgent need for revamping the system and announced the implementation under the AMRUT 2 scheme.
Funding and Timeline
Under the central government's initiative, the Thane Municipal Corporation has received Rs 350 crore for the sewer pipeline upgrade work. The project is scheduled to commence after the monsoon season and is expected to be completed within two years.
Public Participation and Communication
Kelkar stressed the importance of keeping citizens informed about the project in advance and addressing their complaints and suggestions. He noted that public participation is crucial for the success of any civic project, as the work may cause temporary inconveniences. An official stated that a meeting will be organized with residents from the areas where the work will be undertaken.
The meeting was attended by BJP MLC Niranjan Davkhare, Deputy City Engineer Vikas Dhole, Executive Engineer Nadeem Kazi, Anant Bade, Deputy Engineer Sunil Sajani, and citizen representatives.
Concerns Raised by MNS Functionary
Meanwhile, Thane MNS functionary Swapnil Mahindrakar has questioned the rationale behind digging up roads that have already been revamped, calling it a waste of taxpayers' money. He pointed out that the corporation spent Rs 605 crore from state funds for road upgradation in the city and is now planning to dig the same roads within two years. Several road stretches have already been dug up for laying water lines and would later be dug for sewer lines. Mahindrakar argued that this exercise not only forces citizens to deal with damaged roads but also results in significant wastage of taxpayers' money. He sent a letter to the chief minister and the Thane municipal commissioner expressing these concerns.
