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. This revision will be undertaken in collaboration with IIT-Bombay’s GISE Hub, Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao said.
The original plan, finalised in 2018 after years of preparation, focused on major infrastructure projects such as Metro rail systems, new suburban railway stations, a coastal road from Anand Nagar to Saket and subways. These measures were designed to accommodate Thane’s growing population and urban expansion.
However, the rapid evolution of traffic patterns and infrastructure demands has highlighted the need for an updated strategy. The revised plan will address the city’s projected traffic dynamics through 2030. To ensure this, TMC will work closely with IIT-Bombay, using advanced modelling 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 reality. Traffic congestion, particularly at critical points like Three Hat Naka, will be a priority. Other aspects include managing traffic 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 form a key part of the strategy to improve overall mobility.
Public feedback is said to play an essential role in shaping the revised plan, ensuring that it aligns with the needs of the community. The process will involve coordination between various departments, including the TMC’s Public Works Department, traffic police, Metro authorities, MMRDA, and railways. Environmental experts will also contribute to creating sustainable solutions that minimise ecological impact.
According to Rao, the updated transport plan will reflect Thane’s future growth while addressing its current challenges. This initiative is expected to provide a roadmap for reducing congestion and improving mobility, ensuring that Thane’s infrastructure keeps pace with its expanding population and urban landscape.
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