The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved a proposal to modify the land-use reservation of the Neville D’Souza Football Ground at Bandra Reclamation, paving the way for its redevelopment into a public convention and exhibition centre. The decision was taken by the civic body’s Improvements Committee recently, following a request from the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), which is the land-owning agency.
The football ground, inaugurated in 2018, is one of Mumbai’s few dedicated sports facilities and is currently leased to the Mumbai District Football Association (MDFA). Developed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to FIFA-standard specifications, the venue includes artificial turf and seating capacity for around 5,000 spectators. It has since hosted league matches, tournaments, and various football events at the city and district levels.
Civic officials stated that the land was originally earmarked for a public convention centre and that the change in reservation is required to align with its intended planning designation. They further clarified that the proposed redevelopment will continue to serve public purposes and that a portion of the land will remain open space.
According to planning department documents, the Bandra Reclamation plot was earlier part of the Bandra-Kurla Complex notified area before being brought under BMC’s planning jurisdiction. Officials argue that the surrounding region currently lacks a dedicated convention and exhibition facility, reinforcing the rationale for restoring its original reservation.
However, the move has sparked strong opposition from elected representatives and members of Mumbai’s football community. Critics argue that converting one of the city’s limited football grounds will further reduce already scarce open spaces and negatively impact grassroots sporting activities. The Mumbai Football Association has expressed concern that it will now need to secure alternative venues, leading to higher costs and restricted access for training and competitions.
The issue has gained additional attention after civic records revealed that the BMC altered land reservations exceeding 11,400 sq m across multiple locations within a week, including the nearly 10,000 sq m Neville D’Souza plot. While opposition leaders have questioned the timing and justification of the changes, civic officials maintain that all actions followed due statutory procedures.
The proposal will now be presented before the BMC General Body for final approval before proceeding through the formal process required to amend the Development Plan. Until then, the existing land use status remains unchanged, while discussions continue on balancing infrastructure development with the preservation of sporting spaces in Mumbai.
Source: Prop News Time
