IN PHOTOS: Top 10 questions with Aaditya Thackeray on his vision for Mumbai’s future

On contesting against Milind Deora in a triangular fight: In an exclusive interview with Rajendra Aklekar, Aaditya Thackeray shares that while the fight may be triangular, it is important to respect all candidates vying for the position. He also emphasises that those seeking to contest should step down from cushy political positions, like a Rajya Sabha seat, to show their genuine commitment to the electoral process (Pics/Ashish Rane, X)

Updated On: 2024-11-09 03:58 PM IST

Compiled by : Anisha Shrivastava

PIC/ASHISH RANE
On being accused of inactivity in Worli: He rejects claims of inactivity, pointing out that significant projects in Worli, like BDD and various slum rehabilitation schemes, were achieved during his tenure. He defends his proactive approach in engaging with the community and safeguarding the locality against slum conversions.
Key issues to solve upon re-election: Aaditya lists pedestrian connectivity and improving open spaces as key priorities. He also mentions working on addressing housing challenges and advancing medical services, particularly for senior citizens, through innovations like a medical concierge system.
Successes and failures over the last five years in Worli: Two key successes were improving pedestrian connectivity and revamping neglected public spaces. However, incomplete projects like the Worli-Sewri connector and ongoing traffic management issues remain unresolved.
 
Expansion of health initiatives across Mumbai: While Aaditya plans to introduce health initiatives like the medical concierge for senior citizens across Mumbai, he stresses the broader issue of crumbling healthcare infrastructure under the current state government, blaming lack of support for the deteriorating situation.
Vision for Mumbai’s infrastructure: Aaditya's vision is centred around engaging citizens and urban planners to implement inclusive projects. He laments the lack of local input in current government projects and outlines plans to revitalise Mumbai's pedestrian spaces, address encroachments, and improve transport infrastructure.
On Mumbai’s open spaces and football grounds: He proposes opening up walled-off public spaces and creating more accessible playgrounds for sports like football. His efforts include preventing further encroachment and encouraging better protection of open spaces.
Current status of the Mumbai climate action plan: Aaditya reflects with concern on the state of the Mumbai Climate Action Plan, highlighting that it has been sidelined by the current government. He reiterates the need for ambitious environmental goals, such as achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, a target he believes is still within reach.
Plans upon returning to power: Aaditya promises to bring about much-needed local body elections to ensure that citizens have a voice in governance, and reiterates that his focus will be on completing pending projects and addressing the needs of the public in practical terms.
Message for Sena workers and voters: Aaditya clarifies that his message is one of pride for Maharashtra, standing against the perceived favouritism towards Gujarat. He underscores that the struggle is to protect Maharashtra’s interests and heritage.
 
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