The Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) has finally commenced work on a dedicated ‘Traffic Park’ for children in Sector 35F, marking a distinct shift from conventional parks towards purpose-driven civic infrastructure.
First promised in 2023-24, the traffic park will be spread across approximately 9,500 square metres (around 2.5 acres) near the CISF colony, the project — estimated at around ₹15–16 crore — is being developed as a miniature city designed to teach road and traffic discipline in a practical setting.
Not a leisure park, but a learning space
Unlike typical public gardens or recreational parks, this facility is being positioned as an educational park focused on traffic awareness.
The layout will replicate real-life urban conditions — complete with roads, signals, crossings and civic structures — allowing children to learn by navigating simulated environments rather than through classroom instruction alone.
Children will be able to operate battery-powered two- and four-wheelers, interact with traffic systems and understand road behaviour in a controlled and safe setting.
Accessibility yet to be fully defined
While the project is expected to emerge as a key attraction for schools and families, operational details such as public access remain unclear at this stage.
Based on similar civic facilities, the park:
- May not remain open at all times like a regular park
- Could operate during specific hours or scheduled visits (especially for schools)
- May include an entry fee, considering the scale and maintenance
Officials are yet to formally outline these aspects.
Present status of the Traffic Park:Construction underway amid local attention
Initial clearing of the site for the traffic park has been carried out, including the compound wall, and construction of a few structures inside the park, including a gazebo.
There is no official uddate yet on the completion date of the traffic park yet.
A different kind of civic addition
For a locality like Kharghar — which continues to expand — the traffic park represents a functional addition aimed at long-term behavioural awareness, especially among children.
Rather than serving as just another open space, the project attempts to bridge the gap between urban growth and civic discipline.
Residents still await a public park
The traffic park is being seen as a welcome and thoughtful addition, and residents acknowledge that it serves a specific educational purpose, one that is much required.
However, the need and demand for a regular public park — accessible for daily use such as walking, play and leisure — has existed in the area for several years, and residents say that need still remains. They hope that a public park will be developed soon once the traffic park is thrown open.
What the Traffic Park in Kharghar sector 35 may offer
| Simulated road network with traffic signals and signages |
| Battery-operated two- and four-wheeler driving tracks |
| 500-metre static railway track with toy train |
| Miniature railway station and bus stop |
| Simulated police station, hospital and petrol pump |
| Zebra crossings, dividers and foot over bridge models |
| Interactive traffic awareness games |
| Amphitheatre for workshops and demonstrations |
| Children’s play area and landscaped zones |
| Electric vehicle charging station |
| Rainwater harvesting system |
| Seating areas including gazebo and pergola |
| Food court and visitor amenities |
