Balkum Pada, Thane

The Maharashtra government has approved the expansion of Mumbai Metro Line 5 and a new Line 5A corridor, creating a 34.2-km network across Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan, and Ulhasnagar at an estimated cost of Rs 18,130 crore.

The Thane Integral Ring Metro project, an approximately INR 12,000-12,200 crore initiative spanning 29 km, is now under direct monitoring by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) via the PRAGATI platform to expedite its progress, with a targeted completion by 2029.

Construction has officially commenced on the Thane Internal Ring Metro Project, which aims to connect the city through 22 stations. This initiative is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion, particularly on Ghodbunder Road and the Eastern Express Highway, and improve intra-city mobility.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that the state government is prioritizing the resolution of traffic congestion in Thane through key infrastructure projects like the Coastal Road and elevated corridors. These projects are progressing steadily and are expected to significantly improve traffic flow.

Farmers whose land will be acquired for the Thane Coastal Road project are demanding fair compensation and recognition of their cultivation rights. Thane is also experiencing severe traffic congestion due to a mismatch between the number of vehicles and the available road infrastructure, exacerbated by narrow streets, inadequate parking, and ongoing infrastructure projects.