Innovative rooftop sports facility in slum

Residents avoid going to the original playground, located near the mangroves, due to its location

KARACHI:

Machhar Colony — also known as Muhammadi Colony — is believed to be the oldest and the largest slum area of the metropolitan city. Primarily home to Bengali community, the slum, which is spread over 4.5 square kilometres, has become a hub for labourers due to its proximity to the city's largest wholesale market and port.

However, despite its burgeoning population, Machhar Colony lacks basic necessities — including recreational spaces. There is a small playground, located near the mangroves, but residents are hesitant to use it due to its location and condition. "People avoid it," said Mustafa Hussain, a local resident. "It's far from the living spaces and not suitable for many."

However, an innovative rooftop sports facility known as 'Cover Drive,' located on the roof of a market at Fazal Chowk, is offering hope for its children and adults. Built just two years ago, the 150x55 ground is designed specifically to cater to the sports needs of the colony's youth. "We've enclosed the space with a net to prevent the balls from going off," said Muhammad Faisal, the operations manager.

What makes 'Cover Drive' unique is its accessibility during Ramazan when many residents seek a place to play in the cooler evening hours after day's work. The ground operates through the night, offering football and cricket enthusiasts an opportunity to stay active despite the lack of public spaces. "This is perfect for those who work during the day," Faisal explained, adding that players or teams are charged for their time.

The ground is divided into two sections: a larger one for adults and a smaller one for casual players, though the space doesn't accommodate spectators. To ensure uninterrupted play, solar panels have been installed to offset the frequent power outages that blight the area. Faisal, who recently joined the management team after being a regular player, acknowledged the importance of the ground. "It's a lifeline for us, especially for those who, like me, grew up with no nearby places to play."

Despite the strides made by 'Cover Drive,' local residents, like Hussain, are critical of the lack of government-funded recreational spaces. "It's the government's responsibility to provide playgrounds," he said, lamenting the absence of any proper facility to engage in sports. He pointed out that the colony, with a population of over 500,000, remains one of the most underprivileged areas in the city.

Abdul Sattar, another resident, referred to the lack of inclusive spaces, particularly for girls and women. "Boys can play on the streets or even travel outside the area, but where can girls go?" he asked. Sattar also expressed his frustration with politicians, who, during election campaigns, often promise to improve basic living conditions but fail to follow through. "It's a broken promise," he said.

Despite its limitations, 'Cover Drive' is seen as a positive development for the slum dwellers. Local players appreciate the space, even though many cannot afford the fees. "It's not enough, but at least it's something," said Sattar, applauding the person who initiated the ground. "For both the physical and mental well-being of the community, it's a brilliant idea, even if there's a charge."

While 'Cover Drive' is far from a perfect solution, it is a testament to community-driven efforts to provide a semblance of recreational space in an otherwise neglected area. Residents remain hopeful that more such initiatives will emerge, but they continue to urge the government to step in and fulfill its responsibility to improve the quality of life in Machhar Colony.