The Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) is drawing criticism from Kharghar residents as it prepares infrastructure for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally in the area on November 14. While efforts are underway to upgrade roads and infrastructure for the high-profile event, many locals argue that such attention should have been given earlier to neglected public spaces and amenities.

Central Park, a major recreational spot in Kharghar, has become the focal point of frustration. Residents have expressed dissatisfaction over its deteriorating state, citing broken amenities, insufficient lighting, and unsanitary conditions. They hope that the Prime Minister's visit might compel authorities to undertake much-needed repairs.

Mangal Kamble, founder of the Swachh Kharghar Foundation, took to social media to bring attention to the issue, tagging the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and criticizing the lack of maintenance. “Sir, you are visiting Central Park on November 14. Authorities only become alert when you visit. The park is totally neglected, with no maintenance or cleanliness. Sir, please look into it,” Kamble posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Other residents have shared images highlighting safety hazards and neglect. Rupesh Koyande posted a photograph of a darkened children’s play area at 6:45 p.m. due to broken streetlights, while Hetesh Jain pointed out chipped concrete and damaged seating at the park’s amphitheatre, raising safety concerns.

Local voices, such as Sanjay Kumar, have tagged both CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation) and PMC on social media, calling for immediate action. "Central Park, Sector 23, Kharghar, is in dire need of maintenance,” Kumar wrote, urging authorities to address its declining state. Similarly, resident Prakash Sahu flagged safety issues concerning the park's dome structure, which has visible cracks, warning of potential collapse risks.