States » WestPosted at: Oct 26 2026 2:14PM


MMNS Chief Raj Thackeray slams chaotic traffic, potholes, future and governance crisis

Mumbai, Oct 26 (UNI) Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Chief Raj Thackeray on Monday launched a blistering attack on the burgeoning traffic crisis in the country, asserting that the widespread lawlessness on Indian roads offers a clear and concerning reflection of the nation's future.
Addressing a convention organised by the MNS Transport Wing, he highlighted key issues including a lack of lane discipline, widespread jumping of traffic signals, and poor infrastructure construction, designed to last only a couple of years. He held both the administration and the public mindset responsible for the breakdown of urban mobility.
"The traffic situation in our country has become so severe today, a point I have raised repeatedly. This issue is set to take a monstrous form because there are no boundaries or frameworks enforced," Thackeray said, adding, "When I look at the traffic in this country, I can see its future."
Critiquing urban planning and infrastructure, the MNS chief noted that neither the citizens nor the government seem to understand proper driving or parking ethics. "Bridges and flyovers are being built without a cohesive vision, and roads are constructed in a manner so that fresh tenders can be issued within two years," he alleged.
Pointing out standard planning norms, Thackeray said that while cities should ideally reserve 15 per cent of their total land area for roads, a major city like Pune has only around 7 per cent road area. He added that rapid population and vehicular growth without proper town planning has led to complete chaos.
Highlighting blatant traffic violations, Thackeray pointed out that heavy vehicles, lorries, and trailers frequently occupy the fast right lanes on highways instead of sticking to the mandatory left side. He also expressed concern over the defiance of traffic signals, particularly among two-wheeler riders.
"Technology was brought in to reduce human labour. We installed automated traffic signals, yet traffic constables still have to stand at intersections because there is no confidence that citizens will obey signals," Thackeray observed.
Proposing simple measures, Thackeray urged authorities to use clear visual cues on footpaths, such as painting red and black strips for 'No Parking' zones and yellow and black strips where parking is permitted, to make rules obvious to motorists.
Taking a swipe at official claims of economic growth, Thackeray questioned the relevance of a 7.8 per cent GDP figure when basic urban infrastructure remains severely degraded, with wetlands being encroached upon and civic amenities crumbling.
Emphasising personal discipline, Thackeray stated that he strictly instructs his own convoy drivers never to jump traffic signals under any circumstances. He concluded by stating that enforcing traffic discipline is "not rocket science" and merely requires strong administrative will, while appealing to citizens to start observing rules voluntarily.
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Tags: #MMNS Chief Raj Thackeray slams chaotic traffic# potholes# future and governance crisis
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