Thane’s rapidly growing population and real estate boom have compounded urban challenges for residents, particularly traffic congestion and infrastructure delays. The situation is dire, with citizens grappling with inadequate roads, footpaths, water scarcity, and overburdened public transport. The promise of addressing these pressing issues has become a focal point in the upcoming triangular electoral battle, reports Indian Express.
Thane constituency will go to polls on November 20, along with all other seats in the state. Counting of votes for all seats will be held on November 23.
The Thane Assembly seat is witnessing a fierce three-way contest:
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- Sanjay Kelkar (BJP): The sitting MLA is seeking a third consecutive term, banking on the development agenda supported by CM Eknath Shinde’s Mahayuti coalition.
- Rajan Vichare (Shiv Sena-UBT): A two-time MP, Vichare aims to reclaim Thane, once considered the Shiv Sena’s stronghold.
- Avinash Jadhav (MNS): MNS’ Thane district president hopes to build on his 2019 performance, where he secured over 70,000 votes despite limited campaign time.
Key Challenges: Traffic, Water Scarcity, and Civic Delays
Residents cite traffic congestion, water scarcity, and stalled civic projects as their primary concerns. The rising dependency on water tankers has highlighted the need for long-term solutions, such as the construction of dams.
Candidates’ Vision for Thane Infrastructure
Kelkar emphasises public transport improvements, including the Rs 12,000-crore internal ring road Metro project, a second railway station, and plans to tackle water issues through dam development. “Our aim is all-round development, focusing on health, education, and congestion relief,” said Kelkar, touting the BJP’s infrastructure proposals.
Vichare’s campaign underscores what he describes as the incumbent’s failure to deliver results. His manifesto includes projects like the Thane-Borivali tunnel, traffic junction improvements, and green space development. “Thane is growing rapidly; we need new projects to cater to the population’s needs,” Vichare asserted. “Our aim is to work on the all-round development of Thane that includes improvement of health, education, etc. We are also emphasising public transport to ease congestion such as the recently announced ring-road Metro in Thane.
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