The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has commenced its pre-monsoon drain cleaning operation from Monday, with the aim of completing the work across all wards by the end of May. Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, who launched the drive by inspecting the drain near Kapurbawdi Police Station, has directed officials to maintain a strict schedule, ensure daily updates, and immediately remove sludge to prevent foul odour and health risks.
In the first phase, drain-cleaning orders have been issued for five wards—Naupada-Kopri, Uthalsar, Majiwada-Manpada, Diva, and Kalwa—covering part of the 278-km long drainage network across the city. The second phase, starting April 25, will cover Mumbra, Lokmanya Nagar–Savarkar Nagar, Vartak Nagar, and Wagle Estate.
Commissioner Rao has instructed engineers and sanitation inspectors to maintain daily reports of the work done and ensure no delay in transporting the extracted silt. He emphasised the need for timely completion to mitigate monsoon flooding and public inconvenience.
The cleaning campaign kicked off with senior officials and local representatives present at various locations including Hardas Nagar and near Gnyansadhana College, where drains were desilted under supervision.
TMC has pledged close coordination among departments and ward offices to ensure a smooth and timely execution of the citywide operation ahead of the rainy season.