Thane, April 20: In a welcome move to tackle rising temperatures, green shade structures have been installed at major traffic junctions across Thane city. The initiative, aimed at providing much-needed relief to motorists waiting at signals, is already gaining positive feedback from commuters.
The Green Shade Initiative in Thane
The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has set up these green covers at five key locations — Teen Haath Naka, Almeida Chowk, Khopat, Majiwada Junction, and near Nitin Compound. These intersections in thane witness high traffic congestion throughout the day, making them ideal spots for the heat protection project.
With summer temperatures soaring above 38°C, motorists, especially two-wheeler riders, face direct exposure to the sun during prolonged signal halts. The newly installed shade structures help reduce the impact of the harsh sunlight, offering a cooler and more bearable wait at junctions.
Each green shade structure to allow airflow while blocking direct sunlight when you halt at traffic signals. The shade not only provides physical comfort but also promotes awareness of sustainable urban planning.
“We face intense heat every day while riding. These shades really make a difference at long signals,” said Ramesh Kulkarni, a daily commuter who crosses Majiwada junction regularly. Another rider at Teen Haath Naka appreciated the effort, calling it “a thoughtful step towards improving commuter experience.”
The initiative reflects TMC’s commitment to climate-responsive solutions in urban spaces. According to officials, the project is part of a broader plan to introduce environment-friendly infrastructure across the city.
TMC engineers monitored the busiest junctions before deciding the placement of the shades. Authorities will also assess user feedback to determine the feasibility of extending the project to other areas.
As temperatures continue to rise across Maharashtra, such small but effective interventions could set a precedent for other cities to follow. The green shade project highlights how cities can combine comfort, functionality, and sustainability to improve daily life for residents.
