PANVEL: BJP candidate from Panvel, Prashant Thakur, a three-time MLA whose constituency PM Narendra Modi selected for a public assembly final week, is assured of a fourth time period. From 2009, when he first contested from Panvel, until now, the younger chief has come a great distance, rising in power and stature. His recognition is palpable within the enthusiastic crowds that greet him in each assembly.
Panvel BJP candidate Prashant Thakur (centre) (HT PHOTO)
Campaigning in a big constituency like Panvel isn’t simple. Prashant, nonetheless, is leaving no stone unturned to achieve out to the populace, even touring the far-flung villages, that sport a festive look with banners and festoons to welcome him.
Commenting on the rousing welcome, he stated, “We work 24×7 all year round and not just during elections. This has been the case since my father, former MP Ramseth Thakur, started his political life. That is why people have elected me repeatedly and shower me with such overwhelming love.”
To their credit score, the Thakurs have been in a position to maintain on to the constituency despite the fact that get together affiliations have modified – from Peasants and Staff Occasion of India (PWP) to Congress after which to BJP. “The confidence of the people has remained intact as they see that my father still guides us. I and my brother Paresh, the leader of the house in the civic body, have continued to work for all sections of society. People know why we took the decision to change parties – for the development of the region.”
Brushing apart the opposition criticism, he known as them out for failing to carry any challenge or scheme to the constituency. “I have brought government funds of over ₹2,100 crore for various projects. Water supply issue will be resolved in the next eight months. Capacity of Hetawane dam and Kondane dam are being augmented while Nhava Sheva Scheme 3 will bring additional water to the region.”
Different notable initiatives he credited himself with are – ₹480 crore price electrical energy initiatives of which ₹250 crore works have already began; a ₹550-crore junction enchancment challenge for Kalamboli freeway, and 25 well being centres in rural areas. “We are also developing D B Patil Bhavan in Kharghar for all communities while Ramabai Ambedkar Hostel is being developed in Khanda Colony for 350 students. And, the Navi Mumbai airport is set to be named after our revered leader D B Patil.”
On the NAINA challenge across the airport space, he stated, “It will provide quality infrastructure and services. However, if the villagers do not want it, there should be voting in the gram sabha. If villagers face injustice, the project is not required.” Additionally relating the delicate PAP homes regularisation subject, he stated they’re now working to get them possession rights.
Selecting his phrases rigorously about future ambitions, he stated, “Prashant Thakur doesn’t need to become a minister to do development work. People love me and, hence, demand it but the party has to take a decision after taking into account the alliance, seniority, and regional balance. I will accept a ministerial berth if the party gives me the responsibility, but that is not my aspiration. The people are with me – that’s my real power!”