Shiv Sena UBT Opposes PPP Handover of Andheri Sports Complex and Open Plots
A Shiv Sena (UBT) delegation led by MLA Aaditya Thackeray met Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide on Monday to oppose a series of administrative proposals involving open spaces, playgrounds, and civic plots across Mumbai, including a key facility in Andheri West. Following the meeting, Thackeray announced that the political party will launch an agitation and march directly to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) against any administrative moves intended to hand over or alter the designated use of the city’s public open spaces.
One of the primary objections raised by the party concerns the proposed handover of the BMC-owned Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Sports Complex, a 12-acre plot in Andheri West. Under the proposal, the civic body intends to hand over the sports complex to a private trust for a period of 10 years under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leadership also objected to the proposed allotment of two open plots owned by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) located in Juhu and D.N. Nagar. These two MHADA-owned plots are proposed to be allocated to the institution for a tenure of three years specifically for caretaking and beautification work.
In Bandra Reclamation, the delegation voiced opposition to the proposed change in reservation for the Neville D’Souza Football Ground. The party indicated that altering the reservation status of the sports ground could pave the way for its eventual conversion into an exhibition centre.
According to Thackeray, the announced agitation will not be limited solely to civic plots but will focus on broader public concerns. The protest actions will focus on protecting Mumbai’s open spaces, saving the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking, and improving the city’s overall education system.
The delegation meeting with Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide was attended by several party officials and representatives. Among those present alongside Aaditya Thackeray were BMC Opposition Leader Kishori Pednekar, MLA Sunil Shinde, and corporators Hemangi Warlikar, Padmaja Chemburkar, Nishikant Shinde, and Chintaman Nivate.
