Lack of maintenance, drainage causes deterioration; locals call for immediate action from authorities

BANDIPORA: Sports enthusiasts in Hajin, a town in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, are expressing strong dissatisfaction with the authorities due to the neglect of what was once a renowned playground in Sonawari. They said despite officials’ claims of improving sports infrastructure, the condition of the playground has deteriorated significantly, leading to frustration among local cricket and football lovers.
According to Zahid Zubair, the secretary of DFA zone Sonawari, the neglect by officials has resulted in the playground becoming dilapidated. Previously considered one of the finest grounds in Bandipora, it was predominantly used by footballers and cricketers. However, due to official negligence, it has fallen into disrepair.
Zubair highlighted the lack of a dewatering mechanism on the ground, making it difficult to dry after rainfall. The prolonged waterlogging has allowed weeds to thrive, rendering the ground unusable for sports activities.
Asim Aijaz, President of DFA, echoed these sentiments, noting that even a small amount of rain inundates the entire ground, disrupting sports activities during the peak season. Despite efforts to raise the issue with officials, there has been no resolution.
Javid Ahmad, another sports enthusiast, emphasized the irony of the administration’s efforts to engage youth in sports activities while neglecting the maintenance of sports grounds. He described the ground as turning into a cesspool due to the absence of proper drainage.
The sports enthusiasts believe that with proper attention from the authorities, the ground could host national-level matches. However, continuous waterlogging has led to the cancellation of many tournaments in the past. They have urged the Deputy Commissioner of Bandipora to intervene and address the issue promptly.

GOWHAR MAQBOOL