The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has decided to revise its 2018 Comprehensive Transport Plan to address emerging traffic challenges and prepare the city for the next phase of growth. The revision will be done in collaboration with IIT-Bombay’s GISE hub, Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao said.
The original plan, finalized in 2018 after years of preparation, focused on major infrastructure projects such as the metro rail system, new suburban railway stations, the coastal road from Anand Nagar to Saket and the subway. These measures were designed to accommodate Thane’s growing population and urban sprawl.
However, the rapid evolution of traffic patterns and infrastructure demands has highlighted the need for an updated strategy. The revised plan will address the projected traffic dynamics of the city by 2030. To ensure this, TMC will work closely with IIT-Bombay, using advanced modeling techniques and expert inputs to redesign the transport plan over the next year.
The revision will focus on evaluating the implementation of the original plan and identifying areas for improvement based on current realities. Traffic jams, especially at critical points like the three haat nakas, will be a priority. Other aspects include traffic management from school buses, construction projects, and solid waste vehicles.
New proposals, such as introducing cycle tracks, creating pedestrian-only zones, and exploring water transport options using Thane Creek, are also under consideration. Enhancing connectivity between metro, rail, and parking facilities will be a key part of the strategy to improve overall mobility.
Public feedback is said to play an important role in shaping the revised plan, ensuring it is aligned with the needs of the community. The process will involve coordination between various departments including TMC’s public works department, traffic police, metro authorities, MMRDA, and railways. Environmental experts will also contribute to creating sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact.
According to Rao, the updated transport plan will reflect the future growth of Thane while addressing the current challenges. The initiative is expected to provide a roadmap to reduce congestion and improve mobility, ensuring that Thane’s infrastructure keeps pace with its expanding population and urban landscape.
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