Aaditya Thackeray Criticizes State Government Over Flooding

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray criticized the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government over inadequate response to flooding in Mumbai, Thane, and Pune following heavy rains. He highlighted the failure of flood mitigation measures and lack of assistance from civic bodies, questioning the absence of local representatives and calling for early civic elections.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray has launched a scathing attack on the Eknath Shinde-led state government over its handling of recent flooding in Mumbai, Thane, and Pune. The cities were overwhelmed after heavy rainfall, highlighting serious deficiencies in response mechanisms.

Thackeray pointed out that significant flooding on the Western Express Highway, a crucial Mumbai thoroughfare, was reminiscent of the city's last major deluge in 2005. He criticized the absence of officials and Sena-BJP representatives on the ground, emphasizing that relief efforts were sorely lacking.

The former minister also noted that vital flood mitigation infrastructure, including 400 pumps and five pumping stations, failed to operate effectively. He further criticized the delay in appointing assistant municipal commissioners, which has left residents without local representatives to address their concerns. Thackeray called for swift action, including the prompt holding of civic body elections and improved coordination with the Urban Development Department.

(With inputs from agencies.)