Thane: BJP MLA Sanjay Kelkar on Wednesday hit out at Maha-Metro for seeking residents’ objections and suggestions only after work on the Integral Ring Metro project had begun, questioning why citizens and key stakeholders were not consulted before the project secured crucial approvals from various central and state agencies.The meeting, held a week after Deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde directed officials to undertake citizen outreach, was attended by representatives from Hiranandani Estate, Chendani Koliwada, Upvan and citizen group Wake Up Thanekar.TOI was the first to highlight residents’ opposition to the manner in which the ring metro project was being executed without adequate citizen consultation.“Even if the project is delayed by four months, it is acceptable, but its implementation must ensure minimum disruption and maximum benefit to citizens,” Kelkar said. He pointed out that 29 commercial units in Upvan, some operating for nearly 50 years, face displacement under the initial alignment. Officials have assured that the affected businesses will be re-established in the same area, he said.Meanwhile, the Thane NCP has sought a discussion on the project at next week’s General Body Meeting, questioning how a project of such scale could proceed without addressing citizens’ objections.In a letter, NCP group leader Najeeb Mulla has demanded a mayor-led committee comprising experts, office-bearers and representatives of all political parties to review the project and submit its report within 45–60 days. The party has also sought a halt to ongoing work until the review is completed, arguing that public funds must not be committed without examining the route, displacement, citizen concerns and Thane’s future transport needs.Citizen group ‘Wake Up Thanekar’ has also urged the authorities to temporarily freeze work on the Ring Metro project till the Kasarwadavli-Wadala Metro 4 line is made operational and other civic infra projects like freeway extension along the Ghodbunder and Eastern Express highways in the city are completed.
