Permission from Forest Department expected by December end

The Thane Municipal Corporation’s (TMC) Commissioner Saurabh Rao has directed that the much-awaited concreting of Gaymukh Ghat Road, a key route on Ghodbunder Road, should commence promptly. The road's repair and development are crucial for improving traffic flow in the area. Permission from the Forest Department, required for the work to begin, is expected by the end of December, with the project likely to be completed by April 2025, according to the Public Works Department.

In a follow-up meeting held Thursday at the Municipal Corporation office, Commissioner Rao addressed ongoing concerns about the road's safety and the need for quality repairs. Despite ongoing minor repairs, the road remains hazardous for two-wheelers, and citizens have emphasized the importance of proper asphalt work before the anticipated concreting project. The commissioner advised the Public Works Department to focus on quality repairs in the interim, as the road is scheduled for a complete overhaul in the near future.

The Public Works Department has already prepared the task order for the concretization, with a revised proposal submitted for approval by the Forest Department. If approval is received by the end of December, the work is expected to begin in January 2025, with completion slated for April 2025.

With concern to the delayed repairs on the Kapurbawdi and Cadbury flyovers. Mr. Rao clarified that negotiations between the contractor and the Public Works Department are ongoing, and the work will be completed soon.

The meeting also included discussions on tackling the traffic congestion on Ghodbunder Road. Representatives from the Municipal Corporation, Public Works Department, Traffic Police, Regional Transport Department, and Metro expressed their commitment to resolving traffic issues. Several initiatives, including improved coordination and increased support from concerned departments, have helped address traffic problems so far.

During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Pankaj Shirasath mentioned that wardens and bus drivers are currently undergoing training to enhance road safety. Additional workshops will be organized if necessary. Furthermore, discussions were held on managing the traffic of heavy vehicles, particularly those arriving from Mumbai despite the existing ban.

Citizens also raised concerns about road crossings at Anand Nagar signal, which currently causes congestion despite the signal. Commissioner Rao instructed the electricity department and traffic police to conduct an on-site inspection and explore solutions.

One of the persistent problems highlighted during the meeting was abandoned vehicles parked along the Ghodbunder Road. Commissioner Rao ordered a joint campaign by the Municipal Corporation, Regional Transport Department, and Traffic Police to remove these vehicles, following due legal procedures.