Emphasizes green initiatives and fare subsidies

The Thane Municipal Corporation Transport Service is gearing up for the fiscal year 2024-2025 with a comprehensive budget presented by Transport Manager Bhalchandra Behere in a recent Transport Committee meeting chaired by Vilas Joshi. Highlighting a commitment to environmental sustainability and equitable access to transportation, the budget outlined ambitious plans for fleet expansion and fare subsidies.

Despite the challenges posed by rising operational costs, the budget maintains existing passenger fares, projecting an expected subsidy of Rs. 452.48 crores to sustain the transportation network. This subsidy is crucial for facilitating affordable travel for commuters, with special provisions for senior citizens, disabled individuals, students, and other concession holders.

An integral aspect of the budget is the proposed addition of 186 new electric buses over the next two years, aligning with efforts to reduce pollution and promote eco-friendly transportation solutions. This initiative emphasises the corporation's dedication to enhancing public mobility while mitigating environmental impact.

Furthermore, recognizing the growing demand for transportation services in Thane, the budget emphasises the need for an expanded fleet, with a target of 793 buses to adequately serve the population. Currently, the corporation operates 446 buses, and plans are underway to augment this number to meet evolving commuter needs.

In addressing staffing requirements, the budget accounts for the retirement of employees, with 143 positions expected to become vacant by the end of the fiscal year. To address this turnover, provisions have been made for retirement payouts and arrears related to the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission.

A notable aspect of the budget is the proposed increase in fines for passengers traveling without tickets, doubling from Rs.100 to Rs.200. This measure aims to deter fare evasion and ensure the financial sustainability of the transport service.

As discussions unfold regarding the budget's proposals, stakeholders have voiced their opinions, with suggestions and objections slated for deliberation in an upcoming transport meeting scheduled for February 13. Following this review process, the budget will be presented to Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar for final approval.