TMC Approves Thane Cluster Development Company Despite BJP Opposition

The Thane Municipal Corporation General Body passed a proposal on Monday to establish an independent Special Purpose Vehicle named the Thane Cluster Development Company, overriding strong objections from ruling ally Bharatiya Janata Party and opposition parties.

The meeting in Thane witnessed heated debate as the ruling Shiv Sena pushed through the measure despite resistance from its alliance partner. The proposal was approved with modifications, further exposing political divisions within the ruling coalition.

BJP members, led by corporators Amit Saraiya and Narayan Pawar, stated that while they support urban cluster development, they oppose the creation of a separate corporate entity. They raised concerns regarding transparency, pointing out the absence of defined objectives, board composition, and operational frameworks for the proposed company.

During the debate, Saraiya argued that approving the entity without established operational guidelines presents governance issues. Senior leader Narayan Pawar added that introducing an extra administrative layer could hinder progress, pointing out that on-ground work has remained slow even after nearly Rs 100 crore was spent on GIS surveys.

Opposition leaders from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) also demanded a special session before any approval was granted.

Responding to the concerns, Assistant Director of Town Planning Kunal Mule defended the civic administration's stance. He explained that establishing a Special Purpose Vehicle follows a phased legal procedure, with board directors set to be appointed following formal approval.

Mule noted that while agencies such as CIDCO, MAHAPREIT, and MSRDC oversee overarching redevelopment, the municipal corporation operates directly on the ground. He stated that a dedicated SPV is necessary to streamline project execution and generate long-term revenue for the civic body.

Despite the sustained pushback from the BJP and opposition corporators, Shiv Sena representatives moved forward with the vote and secured approval for the new entity.