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Shinde announces comprehensive development plan for Thane district

Shinde also stressed on the importance of skill development, educational initiatives, tourism promotion, and infrastructure projects for holistic district growth

Shinde said that an MMRDA expert panel has been tasked with studying and providing permanent solutions to traffic snarls across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, officials said (X/@mieknathshinde)

Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday announced that a comprehensive development plan will be implemented for Thane district to tackle traffic congestion, flood relief, smart health centers, smart schools, renewable energy, tourism, and employment generation.

Shinde said that an MMRDA expert panel has been tasked with studying and providing permanent solutions to traffic snarls across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, officials said.

The directives came at a meeting of the Thane District Planning Committee, chaired by Shinde at Planning Bhavan. Officials reviewed progress on upgrading all primary health centers to smart health centers and transforming local schools into smart schools, with funds mobilized through CSR and public participation.

Plans to implement drone- and AI-based traffic management systems and rooftop solar projects for government buildings were also approved.

Flood-affected areas, including damaged roads, bridges, and schools, will receive immediate relief, while water supply improvements through the Chikhali Dam and Ulhas River projects were discussed. Emphasis was also placed on expanding natural farming, increasing productivity, and supporting local farmers.

Shinde also stressed on the importance of skill development, educational initiatives, tourism promotion, and infrastructure projects for holistic district growth. The meeting also saw the inauguration of the “Seva Samvad” citizen feedback platform, designed by District Collector Dr. Shrikrishna Panchal, to enable faster, transparent governance.

Officials were instructed to coordinate across departments, implement short- and long-term measures, and ensure efficient use of the district budget, with priority given to schemes related to health, education, tourism, and livelihoods.

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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