The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced plans to lay red soil across four playgrounds in Matunga, Wadala, and Sion, part of the F North ward, to improve usability and safety for children. The initiative follows concerns about hard soil surfaces after monsoon withdrawal, which have made playgrounds difficult to use. The civic body believes red soil’s water-retention properties will soften these areas, enhancing play experiences while reducing the risk of impact-related injuries.
According to an official from the BMC gardens department, “The top layer of soil in these playgrounds has hardened significantly. Red soil is known to soften surfaces, and we plan to apply it selectively in areas where children’s activities are most affected.” The four targeted locations include playgrounds near Nappu Hall in Matunga, Sahakar Nagar in Wadala, Anant Narayan Dalvi playground opposite Sion bus depot, and Vasanji Park in Dastoorwadi, Naigaon, Dadar East. Red soil has previously been used at Shivaji Park, where the BMC laid 80 truckloads between 2019 and 2021. That project drew complaints from residents, citing frequent dust storms and respiratory issues. Following directions from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, the civic body partially removed the soil to reduce dust pollution. Experts have noted that while red soil retains water and softens surfaces, it can become loose and dusty in dry conditions, especially in large open spaces exposed to wind.
An earth science expert explained, “Red soil is softer than black soil when moist, but can generate dust during dry periods. In smaller playgrounds, careful maintenance can mitigate dust-related issues.” Residents have echoed these concerns, emphasising the need for proper irrigation systems to maintain soil moisture and prevent dust storms. A former local corporator suggested installing pipelines to water these playgrounds regularly, highlighting that without consistent maintenance, the benefits of red soil could be offset by environmental problems. The BMC has addressed such concerns, noting that the playgrounds in F North ward are relatively small, typically around 2,000 square metres, making them easier to manage. “We are confident that maintenance will be simpler in these spaces compared to larger parks, and any dust issues can be quickly addressed,” said a senior official from the gardens department.
The initiative reflects BMC’s broader approach to enhancing neighbourhood infrastructure with practical interventions aimed at inclusivity, safety, and community well-being. With careful monitoring and maintenance, the red soil project may offer safer, more accessible play areas while keeping environmental impacts in check.
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