Thane: In a critical meeting held on Tuesday,23^rd June, 2024 to review the status of dangerous buildings within the Thane Municipal Corporation’s (TMC) jurisdiction, Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao made a heartfelt appeal for the safety of residents. Emphasizing the importance of citizen safety, he urged the occupants of dilapidated buildings to vacate their premises for the remainder of the monsoon season.

Commissioner Rao highlighted the serious risks posed by the monsoon, urging residents to be cautious to prevent any accidents and loss of life. He noted that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has issued orders stressing the necessity of these precautions for the safety of all citizens. Furthermore, Commissioner Rao assured that no officer would be held responsible for any building accidents during the monsoon, provided due diligence is observed.

In cases where residents are willing to take personal responsibility for repairs, they must submit photographic evidence of the completed work to the respective ward committee. Commissioner Rao insisted that any evacuations should be conducted without infringing on anyone's legal possession, following judicial and technical inspections within each ward's limits. The aim is to ensure there are no casualties and that every citizen remains safe. He also directed that stability reports for buildings needing immediate repairs be submitted within seven days.

 The meeting revealed that out of 96 high-risk buildings in the Thane municipal area, 47 have been vacated. Additionally, the upper floors of 29 buildings have been demolished while retaining the ground floors, and about 20 buildings remain partially occupied.

The meeting was attended by Additional Commissioner Prashant Rode, Deputy Commissioner GG Godepure, Manish Joshi, Dinesh Taide, Shankar Patole, and the respective Assistant Commissioners from all ward committees.