Mumbai: Bandra Football Ground Faces Convention Centre Threat, Protest Held

On Sunday, a peaceful protest took place at Neville D’Souza Football Ground in Bandra Reclamation, Mumbai, against the proposed conversion of the football ground into a convention centre. Attendees included Nigel D’Souza, son of the legendary Neville D’Souza, Mumbai Football Association (MFA) President Sudhakar Rane, footballers, students, residents, and civic representatives.

The proposal, approved by the BMC's improvement committee, aims to replace the existing 8,450 sq m playground reservation with an exhibition centre on a MHADA-owned plot. This issue is not merely about land, but about preserving Mumbai's football heritage and the future of its children. Over 50,000 citizens have signed a petition, and the MFA has taken legal action.

Social activist Furkan Shaikh emphasized the need for more playgrounds, stating that development should not compromise children's right to play. Bandra Gymkhana President Cheryl Misquitta resigned, urging authorities to reconsider the need for a convention centre instead of maintaining the football ground where thousands of children and sports associations train annually.

Congress leader Ashraf Azmi also appealed to the BMC Chairman to intervene, highlighting that the ground serves as a symbol of Mumbai's sporting legacy and is crucial for the aspirations of over 8,000-10,000 young footballers. The MFA is challenging the proposal in the Bombay High Court, seeking an urgent hearing before it is presented to the BMC House on August 10. For more property news in Mumbai and surrounding areas, visit budgetproperties.in.