Mumbai: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has sought additional time to submit papers for the lease renewal of Wankhede stadium. The Mumbai city collector has demanded Rs 120 crore from the MCA towards unpaid dues and lease renewal, and said that if the MCA fails to cough up the money, it will have to vacate the premises.
The hearing on the issue was held at the collector’s office Friday, but the MCA has asked for more time. This is the second time the MCA has asked for additional time, citing papers’ submission.
Sampat Davkhar, deputy collector for Mumbai city, said, “During Friday’s hearing, the MCA has asked for more time to present the papers. On the grounds of natural justice, permission has been granted to them. We have given them time till June 18 to submit the papers.”
The money paid by these lessees will be used for the welfare of the poor. Mumbai collector, Shivajirao Jondhale, issued notice to the MCA on April 16. The Wankhede stadium plot was given to the MCA by the state government for a period of 50 years, which ended in February 2018. Mr Jondhale issued notices to 676 other properties whose lease had expired.
The collector gave a 21-day period to the lessees to pay their dues. There are now only two options left i.e. paying the dues as per the New Lease Renewal Policy (LRP) or surrendering the properties. There are 12 properties from the Malabar Hill area, which are not ready to pay as per the new LRP.
The Wankhede stadium is spread over an area of 43,977 square feet and can accommodate 33,000 viewers. The office of the Cricket Control Board is also located in the same premises.
