Khar Gymkhana Proposal for Padel Courts on Cricket Ground Sparks Opposition

A proposal to build padel courts on an open space currently used as a cricket ground at Khar Gymkhana in Mumbai has triggered opposition from club members who fear the move could damage the institution's cricketing legacy.

The Gymkhana, which has over 4,000 members, convened a special general body meeting a few months ago to seek approval for the proposal. However, the managing committee has not yet taken a final decision on whether to proceed with the construction.

Abhijeet Deolekar, a life member of the Gymkhana speaking on behalf of the cricket committee, expressed concerns that altering the dimensions of the ground would make it impossible to host competitive cricket tournaments. The ground currently hosts fixtures for tournaments including the Kanga League, Govardhandas Shield, and Bhagubhai Khichadia Shield.

Deolekar stated that the opposition is not directed against padel as a sport, but rather focused on preserving the limited open space available at the 92-year-old institution. He noted that building permanent structures, such as a platform or plinth for padel courts, would encroach upon the cricket ground and make it unplayable for matches.

Members opposing the move have also raised questions regarding the legal status of the land, stating that the ground is demarcated as an open playground belonging to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation or the collector. Deolekar stated that under existing lease terms, such construction may not be permissible without requisite civic permissions.

Gymkhana president Gaurav Kapadia declined to comment on the matter. The managing committee and trustees are currently reviewing the proposal alongside counter-arguments submitted by members. The debate comes ahead of the Gymkhana's scheduled elections in September.