Civic body consulting with citizens is laudable

Representational images. Pic/iStock

In a recent session of the initiative ‘Thane evolving through my eyes' the Thane civic chief worked with people from diverse fields to design the Thane Municipal Corporation's budget. The emphasis was on key concerns such as enhancing transit services, reducing traffic congestion and planning for the city's future, particularly concerning school students.

Participants stressed the urgent need to improve the city's transport systems, noting a paucity of buses compared to the rising population. They proposed dedicating a percentage of roadworks funding to improve transport services and emphasised the need to coordinate efforts to reduce traffic congestion. There were conversations about environmental concerns, like noise pollution. The biggest bugbear, parking, was a hot-button topic. The visionary aspect was looking at Thane and its development in 20 years.

It is heartening to note that citizens were taken into consideration during this meet. This is the kind of partnership that helps towards better city planning. While every suggestion may not be worth following or implementation may be impossible for some reasons, it does help authorities feel the pulse of the people.

Most of all, it seeks to bridge a trust deficit between municipal authorities and citizens and makes everyone aware of different views, procedures and hurdles.

The corporation must not only give verbal assurances but also work on suggestions. Conversation followed by solid action reposes confidence in people and it makes the citizenry respect their leaders.

Most of all, this is about an open, participatory approach, that factors in all stakeholders. We look forward to other such initiatives for different projects elsewhere too, a sterling effort at fruitful exchange and acknowledgement of people power.