Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 19: The only playground in the Gund Rehman area of district Ganderbal has been in shambles for the last several years, leaving local athletes disheartened.
Despite raising the issue with the concerned authorities, the plea of the locals, which dates back nearly 30 years, remains unaddressed. As a result, youngsters are forced to use playgrounds situated in other distant areas.
“I guess from the time I came to my senses, this issue has persisted. We have been bringing this matter to the notice of the authorities, but nothing has changed on the ground. They did some work on it, but that has made this ground difficult to play on,” said Muhammad Younis.
Locals state that for the last nearly 30 years, they have been demanding a proper playground, but to no avail. “We only have visits from the officials, and nothing happens after that,” they lamented.
They alleged that, in the name of repairs, stones used in the plinth of houses have been brought to the playground, making its use almost impossible.
“In the name of repairs, what they have done is causing injuries, compelling us to say that this playground was in better shape previously than it is now,” added another resident.
Local athletes expressed that they are barely able to play cricket in the current state of the ground, noting that the football team of the area has to find other spots to play the game.
“As of now, whatever money they have spent under different phases is a total waste. If they have spent it, the same should reflect changes on the ground, but there is nothing,” said Muhammad Asif, another local.
ADC, Ganderbal, Bashir Ahmad, while commenting on the matter, stated that they will seek a report in this regard and, if needed, will also carry out a spot inspection.
“The work is done in phases, but it should not take this long. We will see what is required in this regard to make it playable, and we will do it under the forthcoming plan,” he assured.
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