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The proposal to install astroturf at Colaba Back Garden in south Mumbai has been withdrawn after objections from local footballers and residents. Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar clarified that the ground will retain its natural mud surface and there will be no reduction in its size. While the artificial turf plan has been shelved, basic infrastructure such as floodlights, toilets and changing rooms will be added. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will also level the ground to improve playing conditions while preserving its traditional character.
The proposal to lay astroturf at Colaba Back Garden has been cancelled following concerns raised by local footballers and residents who feared that the move would reduce the size of the existing ground and restrict access for regular players. Advertisement
The ground, officially known as the Sabina Chandrashekhar Memorial Municipal Garden and Playground, is one of the few large natural football fields in south Mumbai. Over the years, it has served as a key training space for local players, including several who have gone on to represent clubs and institutions at higher levels. Residents had stated that replacing the mud surface with artificial turf would change the nature of the ground and could make it less accessible for open community use.
Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar clarified that the playground's area will not be reduced and that the natural mud surface will be maintained. He said that after reviewing the proposal and meeting local players, it was decided that the astroturf would not be installed. According to him, many users had clearly conveyed that the existing surface was suitable for football and should be preserved.
At the same time, certain improvements will be carried out. Plans include the installation of floodlights to allow evening play, construction of toilets and provision of basic changing room facilities. The ground will also be properly levelled to improve playing conditions without altering its natural character.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation had prepared a broader redevelopment plan for the space as part of efforts to upgrade open grounds in the city. Earlier proposals had included modern features such as a jogging track, children's play area, landscaped sections and seating arrangements. However, the astroturf component drew criticism, particularly from local sports groups who were concerned that artificial turf grounds are often regulated and may involve restricted access.
Colaba Back Garden has long been used by neighbourhood football clubs, school teams and informal local groups. With open grounds in south Mumbai being limited, the decision to retain its natural surface is seen as important by regular users who depend on it for daily practice and matches.
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