Footballers, coaches protest BMC proposal to turn Bandra ground into convention centre
Several academies and clubs use the facility for training and competitive matches
On August 23rd, footballers, coaches, parents, and supporters rallied at the Neville D Souza Football Ground in Bandra to voice their opposition to a proposal that would convert the ground into a convention-cum-exhibition centre. The protesters argued that the ground is crucial for thousands of young players, from schoolchildren to seasoned athletes, who use the facility for training, school tournaments, and league matches.
Nigel Neville D Souza, son of the late Neville D Souza, emphasized that the ground is used by nearly 14,000 individuals, ranging in age from five and upwards. Coaches at the protest expressed concern over the disruption to training schedules and the uncertainty surrounding where players would practice and compete in the next season.
Rajkumar Ashappa, head coach of Rafa Football Academy and Mumbai Warriors FC, stated that the lack of alternative grounds is unacceptable and detrimental to the growth of football in India. Vishal Rathod, a senior coach, questioned the need for another convention facility in the area, citing the existing convention infrastructure.
The Mumbai Football Association (MFA) also opposed the proposal, with its vice-president, Nasir Hussain, highlighting the city's shortage of football grounds. Hussain urged the government to prioritize the creation of more football grounds, as Mumbai currently lacks sufficient facilities. Former India goalkeeper and current goalkeeping coach of I-League club Real Kashmir, Mohammed Yusuf Ansari, joined the protest, expressing regret for the young players and emphasizing the importance of preserving the ground for the future of Indian football.
The protest also garnered political support, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray criticizing the privatisation of public spaces and the lack of planning for football in Mumbai. The immediate demand of the protesters was clear: protect the Neville D Souza ground and increase the availability of football grounds in the city.
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