Mumbai: BMC Approves Bandra's Neville D’Souza Football Ground Conversion To Exhibition Centre Ahead Of Bombay HC Hearing
Mumbai, August 18, 2026: Despite strong opposition from activists, residents and political parties, the BMC's General Body's special meeting on Tuesday approved the controversial change in reservation of Neville D’Souza Football Ground at Bandra Reclamation. The decision comes just days before the Bombay High Court hearing, with the BMC directed to file its affidavit by August 20 and the…
Mumbai's Neville D’Souza Football Ground at Bandra Reclamation faced a controversial decision on Tuesday, despite strong opposition. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) approved the conversion of the 8,450-sq-m MHADA plot into an Exhibition Centre ahead of the Bombay High Court hearing. The BMC Improvement Committee had already approved the proposal, and Mayor Ritu Tawde ruled that it did not require further discussion.
However, the decision has sparked opposition from footballers, coaches, residents, and activists. The Mumbai Football Association (MFA) has challenged the conversion in the High Court, arguing that it was pursued without proper consultation. Around 400 youth clubs and 300 senior clubs currently use the ground, providing training to approximately 8,000–10,000 young footballers.
Congress group leader Ashraf Azmi emphasized the ground's significance as a symbol of Mumbai's sporting legacy and a crucial outlet for aspiring players.
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