The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), in collaboration with architect Hafeez Contractor, has revealed plans for a world-class underground sports complex beneath Mumbai’s iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse.

The 211-acre site, leased by the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC), will see 91 acres retained for racing while the remaining 120 acres will undergo significant development. A two-level underground facility is proposed: the first level, spanning 20 acres, will house Olympic-standard amenities including a 400-mtrs.running track, an Olympic-size swimming pool, six tennis and squash courts, table tennis areas, a skating rink, a shooting range, and courts for handball, volleyball, basketball, badminton, gymnastics, kho-kho, cricket nets, and martial arts.

The second level will feature parking for 5,000 cars. Above ground, half of the 120 acres will become a topiary garden, while the rest will accommodate an urban forest, concert ground, and possibly an auditorium. BMC is currently assessing the feasibility of constructing beneath existing stormwater and sewage lines. The project aims to create a global-standard training hub for young Indian athletes without disturbing the historic racecourse.