Residents raise health concerns

Kharghar: The playground opposite Bal Bharti Public School in Sector 4, Kharghar, has deteriorated into a hazardous dumping ground due to the unchecked disposal of debris and waste. What was once a vibrant recreational space is now marred by piles of rubbish, blocking the entrance and raising serious health concerns among local residents.

Photographs taken by concerned residents show the aftermath of illegal structures being demolished, with the debris left uncleared. This neglect has turned the playground into a breeding ground for mosquitoes, heightening fears of potential outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.

Aarti Jadhav, a resident of Sector 4, expressed her frustration, saying, "The playground has become a complete mess. The debris from the demolished structures is still lying around, and nobody seems to care about clearing it up."

Tushar Waghmare, another resident, added, "We are scared as the rising risk of dengue and malaria increases as the playground has become a favourable site for mosquito breeding. It's alarming that the authorities haven't conducted any cleanliness drives or fumigation rounds”.

Despite the deteriorating conditions and the residents' mounting concerns, there has been no visible action from the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) to address the issue. The lack of response has left residents worried for the safety of their children, who can no longer safely use the playground.

Residents are now urgently appealing to the PMC to clear the debris and restore the playground to its original state, ensuring the health and safety of the community in Sector 4.