Drain Cleaning, Dangerous Hoardings Removal, and NDRF Deployment Prioritised
Thane, May 17 – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Thane District Guardian Minister Eknath Shinde has issued a strong directive to all civic and district agencies to prioritise public safety and complete critical pre-monsoon preparations without delay.Chairing a review meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority on Friday, Shinde stressed that the state government is committed to the welfare of the common man and called for urgent, coordinated efforts to ensure monsoon readiness.
Key Directives Issued Ahead of Monsoon
The Deputy CM instructed departments to complete the cleaning of stormwater drains, conduct structural audits of vulnerable buildings, and swiftly remove any dangerous hoardings. He also emphasized immediate repair of potholes, securing open manholes, and pruning trees to mitigate risks during heavy rains.Special attention was directed toward flood-prone and low-lying areas, with specific measures to prevent water stagnation. The preparedness of temporary shelters and alternative arrangements for villages that could become isolated due to flooding was also discussed.
Railways, Municipal Corporations to Collaborate
Shinde stressed the need for seamless coordination between the Railways and municipal corporations to ensure efficient drainage systems, especially in areas where waterlogging has been a recurring issue.Focus on School Infrastructure and Emergency Readiness
He highlighted the importance of addressing the condition of dilapidated school buildings before the monsoon. In addition, he instructed that volunteer teams equipped with trained swimmers be kept on standby for rescue operations.The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams stationed in Thane and Kalyan have been instructed to remain in the district through September to respond swiftly to any emergencies.
Government's Commitment to Monsoon Preparedness
The official release issued on Saturday underscores the administration’s proactive approach to tackling monsoon-related challenges and safeguarding residents across the Thane district.Shinde’s directives aim to streamline inter-agency coordination and ensure that necessary precautions are firmly in place well ahead of the rainy season.

