India, Feb. 20 -- The proposed beautification and upgradation of a recreation ground (RG) in Colaba has triggered concern among sports enthusiasts and regular football players, who fear that plans to install astroturf there could shrink the existing playing field and eventually restrict public access.

The RG, popularly known as Colaba Back Garden (formally called the Sabina Chandrashekhar Memorial Municipal Garden and Playground), is considered the only full-sized natural football field available to local youth in the area. Over the years, it has produced players who have gone on to represent the country at the national and international level.

Members of the Colaba Back Garden Bachao Samiti, a group of budding sportsmen and local stake...