Protesting traffic snarls: Thanekars to form human chain on September 4

In another round of protest against traffic congestion and potholes in the city, Thane residents will form a human chain for an hour from the Mulund toll naka on September 4.

"People of Thane are fed up with the congestion that is caused by potholes, tolls, smaller Kopri bridge," said Kasber Augustine president, Thane Citizens Foundation (TCF), organiser of the human chain. "While there are politicians who claim that they have filled the potholes that is not the case," he said.

The chain formation will begin from 8 am from Anandnagar toll naka in Mulund towards Thane. "Residents can join us for this one hour to show their displeasure towards the civic apathy in Thane."

Thanekars, especially those working in Mumbai, have been compelled to spend nearly four to five hours on commuting to and from workplaces ever since the Mumbra bypass was shut in May this year.

'Moreover, every day, a heavy vehicle breaks down, which brings the traffic to a halt on the roads. This is frustrating," said Sushant Kumar, a resident of the Hiranandani Estate, Thane.

The residents have also decided to vote only for those candidates who will work for their citizens. "Thanekars are not interested in makeovers of the city. We want promises made to us by elected representatives to be fulfilled. If need be we will get a suitable candidate from among ourselves who is ready to work for us," said Augustine.