Plan to Close Border Check Posts – Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

CM Devendra Fadnavis Lays Foundation Stone for New ‘Parivahan Bhavan’

Mumbai : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized that after 85 years, the Transport Department of Maharashtra is getting a modern headquarters, marking a proud moment for the state. He also directed the preparation of a plan by April 15 to close border check posts across the state.

On the occasion of ‘Transport Day’ on March 1, CM Fadnavis laid the foundation stone for the four-story ‘Parivahan Bhavan’ at Sir Pochkhanwala Road, Worli, Mumbai. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Mumbai City Eknath Shinde, Minister for Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Minister of State for Transport Madhuri Misal, MLA Manisha Kayande, Additional Chief Secretary of Transport Department Sanjay Sethi, and Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, among other dignitaries.

Key Announcements by CM Fadnavis

• New Transport Bhavan: The building has been approved for four floors, with efforts underway to secure additional permissions from the Defense Department. The transport sector is undergoing significant improvements, including online transfers within the department to curb malpractices.
• Faceless Services: Over 45 services have been made available online following central government directives, enhancing transparency and efficiency.
• WhatsApp Governance: More than 500 transport-related services will soon be accessible via WhatsApp, allowing citizens to avail services from home.

Advanced Measures to Prevent Accidents

• Road Safety: Accidents have reduced by 29% on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and by 35% on the Samruddhi Mahamarg. Advanced technology is being used for direct action against traffic violations, promoting disciplined driving.

Solutions for Parking Issues

• Parking Mapping: Municipalities in Mumbai, Thane, and Pune will map parking spaces and integrate them into a single app. Plans are in place to mandate parking space before vehicle purchases, with rental options available.
• Scrapping Old Vehicles: The state has initiated scrapping of 18,000 old government vehicles to curb pollution.

Financial Aid for Auto-Rickshaw and Taxi Drivers

• Honorarium Scheme: Under the ‘Dharamveer Anand Dighe Saheb Auto-Rickshaw and Meter Taxi Welfare Board,’ auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers will receive a ₹10,000 honorarium.

Government Commitment to Transport Development

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde emphasized that the new Parivahan Bhavan will boost efficiency in transport operations and improve public services. He also announced upcoming policies to resolve parking issues and reduce accidents using modern technology.

Completion Timeline for the New Building

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik stated that the 12,800 sq. meter, four-story building will include state-of-the-art facilities and underground parking. The construction is expected to be completed within the next two and a half years.

Appreciation for the Transport Department

Minister of State for Transport Madhuri Misal praised the department for its crucial role in state revenue and public services. She acknowledged the increasing workload due to rising vehicle numbers and emphasized ongoing awareness campaigns to further reduce road accidents.

During the event, CM Fadnavis distributed ₹10,000 retirement honorariums to five senior auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers and launched new faceless services for citizens. The program was inaugurated by Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar.