Thane, a bustling satellite city of Mumbai, continues to grapple with persistent traffic congestion, primarily due to the unregulated movement of heavy vehicles on key thoroughfares like Ghodbunder Road and the Mumbai-Nashik Highway. Despite restrictions imposed on the entry of heavy vehicles during peak hours, these rules are frequently flouted, leading to gridlock and inconvenience for residents.
The Thane Commissionerate area, which encompasses the cities of Thane, Bhiwandi, and Badlapur, is a major transit point for heavy vehicles traveling between the JNPT port and industrial areas in Bhiwandi and Nashik. The influx of these vehicles, combined with the city’s growing population and infrastructure limitations, has exacerbated traffic congestion. Residents have expressed their frustration over the situation, pointing to the negligence of the Thane police in enforcing traffic regulations. Heavy vehicle drivers are observed to be driving at excessive speeds, further contributing to the chaos on the roads. The issue of heavy vehicle traffic has been a recurring problem for Thane residents for several months. Despite efforts to curb the flow of these vehicles, the situation has deteriorated, with traffic jams becoming a daily occurrence on key routes.
The Thane Commissionerate has implemented restrictions on the entry of heavy vehicles during certain hours, but these measures have proven to be ineffective. The lack of enforcement has allowed heavy vehicles to enter the city at all times, overwhelming the road network and causing significant disruptions to the daily lives of residents. As the city continues to grow, the need for effective traffic management solutions becomes increasingly urgent. The Thane police must take decisive action to enforce traffic regulations and ensure that heavy vehicles are not allowed to enter the city at inappropriate times. By doing so, they can alleviate traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for Thane residents.
