Shiv Sena MP Ravindra Waikar has urged the central government to allocate funds for critical infrastructure and community projects across Maharashtra, including the repair of Konkan Railway stations, expanding Mumbai airport’s runway, and upgrading security for Mumbai Police. His demands were presented during the Supplementary Demands for Grants discussion in Parliament on Tuesday.
Key Infrastructure Development Demands
Ravindra Waikar, the Member of Parliament from Mumbai North West, highlighted pressing development needs in Maharashtra:
- Konkan Railway Stations: Waikar stressed the urgency of repairing and renovating stations along the Konkan Railway, which remains a vital lifeline for the region.
- Mumbai Airport Expansion: He called for runway expansion at Mumbai airport to accommodate increasing air traffic and enhance connectivity.
- Mumbai-Goa Highway Completion: Waikar emphasized completing the long-pending Mumbai-Goa highway project to boost travel efficiency and economic growth.
- Telecom Network in Villages: Highlighting the digital divide, Waikar pushed for establishing comprehensive telecom network connectivity across villages in Maharashtra.
- Port Development: He proposed developing ports along the Konkan coast under the Sagarmala scheme to enhance trade and infrastructure.
Focus on Community Welfare
Waikar also advocated for the welfare of the Koli fishing community, proposing grants for construction purposes to improve living conditions and support the traditional livelihoods of this coastal community.
Strengthening Mumbai Police
Raising concerns about security in the financial capital, Waikar demanded modern weapons and upgraded equipment for the Mumbai Police force to enhance their capability in tackling urban challenges.
Cancer Hospital on AIIMS Lines
In a separate address, Waikar underscored the need for a cancer hospital and research center in suburban Mumbai, modeled after AIIMS. With a rising number of cancer patients in the city, he pointed out the strain on existing facilities like Tata Memorial Hospital.
“The population of Mumbai is growing rapidly, and so is the number of cancer patients. Existing hospitals are unable to meet the demand, resulting in delays in treatment. A new hospital and research center are urgently needed to provide timely and affordable healthcare,” Waikar said.
He highlighted that Mumbai, as the financial capital, attracts people from across the country seeking treatment, but limited infrastructure often leaves patients with no choice but to turn to expensive private hospitals.
Special Court and Hospital Maintenance
Waikar further proposed setting up a special court in Mumbai to expedite judicial processes and sought funds for maintaining both new and existing hospitals in the city, ensuring improved healthcare infrastructure for residents.
Conclusion
Ravindra Waikar’s comprehensive list of demands reflects an effort to address Maharashtra’s infrastructure gaps, community welfare, and security concerns. His push for healthcare advancements and support for the fishing community underscores a focus on inclusive development across urban and rural regions of the state.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
