Vasai-Virar’s public gardens and playgrounds, once a source of recreation and community pride, are increasingly unsafe and neglected despite the Municipal Corporation allocating Rs 39 crore for upkeep in 2024–25. Residents report broken swings, rusted benches, unlit areas, and piles of garbage, rendering many of the city’s 162 parks hazardous for children and senior citizens.
In areas such as Sunshine Garden in Nalasopara and Sativali Garden in Vasai East, damaged slides, collapsed boundaries, and neglected walkways have made public spaces virtually unusable. “It’s dangerous to even walk here,” said a local resident. “Broken tiles, rusted equipment, and missing lights make these parks risky for everyone, especially the elderly.” Senior citizens add that the lack of safe, accessible open spaces is a growing concern. Municipal data shows Ward H (Navghar-Manikpur) has the highest number of gardens at 56, followed by Ward A (Bolinj) with 30, and Ward I (Vasai Gaon) with 20. However, locals claim that several parks exist only on paper, with some converted into dumping grounds or encroached upon. Last year, one park was reportedly rented for commercial purposes during Ganesh festival celebrations, highlighting mismanagement of public assets.
VVMC officials insist repair works are underway. An official said that all parks were surveyed, with civil, electrical, and water departments assigned to address maintenance gaps. “Maintenance has been assigned to women’s self-help groups, and we are exploring partnerships with corporate CSR initiatives for better upkeep,” a senior municipal representative said. Another official confirmed that a detailed repair proposal has been submitted and tenders will be floated once approved. NGOs and private bodies are also being approached for long-term support. The municipal initiative relies heavily on self-help groups (SHGs), with approximately 130 teams managing park upkeep. Workers report underpayment and inadequate support, often having to work long hours without basic facilities or security. “Women maintain parks from dawn to dusk, yet equipment failures and infrastructure issues remain the corporation’s responsibility,” said a former civic official. Delayed responses to complaints have left many areas in persistent disrepair, despite ongoing municipal allocations.
Residents and experts stress that sustainable, regular maintenance and fair labour support are crucial to reviving the city’s public spaces. Community engagement, proper infrastructure, and systematic monitoring are seen as key to ensuring gardens remain safe, accessible, and environmentally sustainable, rather than mere symbols on paper. For Vasai-Virar to retain its green identity, municipal authorities must pair funding with effective implementation, transparent monitoring, and support for SHG workers. Without these measures, parks risk further decay, depriving residents of essential communal and recreational spaces.
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