Maharashtra: Infra Man Vikas Dhakane Leads Ulhasnagar’s Development With Bold Mission 50 Initiative

Ulhasnagar, 19th December 2024: In just five months at the helm of the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation (UMC), Commissioner Vikas Dhakane has initiated a series of visionary reforms and development projects aimed at transforming the city. His comprehensive agenda prioritizes infrastructure upgrades, education reforms, improved public services, and enhanced quality of life for residents, all under the ambitious “Mission 50” initiative.

A cornerstone of Dhakane’s efforts is his education reform plan, which aims to establish six model schools under UMC. These schools will feature modern infrastructure and offer quality education, fostering holistic student development. Plans are underway to introduce a CBSE-affiliated school, providing families with an affordable alternative to private institutions. As part of his vision, Dhakane is implementing French and German language training for municipal school students. Alongside academics, he is focusing on developing sports facilities and playgrounds, ensuring a balanced emphasis on extracurricular activities and academics, thereby building public confidence in government schools.

To strengthen citizen engagement and address public grievances directly, Dhakane introduced the Ward Jan Sabha initiative. Every Monday from 10 AM to 12 PM, municipal officers meet residents at various ward offices to resolve issues on the spot. This initiative not only saves time for citizens but also improves governance by educating the public on government schemes and fostering greater transparency and accessibility.

Under Mission 50, Dhakane has launched numerous infrastructure, healthcare, and recreational projects. A new sports complex featuring indoor and outdoor games, such as chess, badminton, basketball, and archery, is underway. The completion of the Balasaheb Thackeray Sports Complex is a priority, while a Japanese Garden, in collaboration with an NGO, will provide a peaceful community space. Additional projects include a boat club and reading clubs (Abhyasika), designed to support students preparing for competitive exams.

Infrastructure upgrades remain a key focus, with significant progress made in the revamp of the Ulhasnagar station bridge and the removal of illegal parking around Ulhasnagar and Vitthalwadi stations. Public gardens are being enhanced with improved water and sanitation facilities.

Additionally, hawkers’ plazas and food courts are being developed to streamline urban spaces and support local vendors.
Dhakane’s healthcare and social welfare initiatives are making a substantial impact. The Anaemia-Free Ulhasnagar campaign addresses critical public health challenges, while the Platinum Hospital has undergone a major revamp to provide improved medical services.

Sanitation improvements in slum areas, including upgraded washroom facilities, have been prioritized. The Hirakni Abhyasika initiative offers dedicated study spaces for girls from underprivileged backgrounds, while plans for a multispecialty pet clinic ensure veterinary care for the city’s residents.

Digital transformation has been another hallmark of Dhakane’s administration. The UMC website is being revamped for improved accessibility, and an integrated property tax system has been introduced for greater transparency. E-office systems are streamlining municipal operations, making them more efficient and accountable. Dhakane has also initiated the establishment of an energy quality testing center to oversee and enhance energy standards in city projects.

Administrative reforms have also been a significant aspect of Dhakane’s tenure. The reassignment and transfer of 55 long-serving staff members have been implemented to promote accountability and productivity. Dhakane has taken decisive action against tax defaulters by initiating property forfeiture proceedings and issuing warrants, ensuring better financial discipline within UMC.

Through his leadership and strategic initiatives, Commissioner Vikas Dhakane is setting the stage for a transformative era in Ulhasnagar. With Mission 50 as the driving force, the city is poised to emerge as a model urban center, where efficient governance, citizen welfare, and infrastructure development converge to create a better future for all residents.