Locals resent shifting of indoor stadium from Pulwama in Kashmir

The Municipal Council President said that there is adequate land available for the same and it looks some vested interests are trying to influence the Department’s decision, which is unfair.

Pulwama, J&K —

Residents in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district are unhappy over the decision of concerned Sports Department authorities of shifting a proposed indoor stadium from the main town to some far off village.

“The indoor stadium, which is part of a scheme under which three indoor stadiums were sanctioned within the district, was to be constructed within the main town Pulwama, but the concerned authorities are mulling to shift the indoor stadium to some village area,” Shabnam Nazir, President of Municipal Council Pulwama told Digpu News in an exclusive chat.

She added, “When it came to our notice, we expressed our reservations to the concerned In-charge Manager, Sports Council about it. He assured that the Department will look into it and take the final decision accordingly.”

The Municipal Council President said that there is adequate land available for the same and it looks some vested interests are trying to influence the Department’s decision, which is unfair.

Muzaffar Ahmad, a local resident, also expressed his reservations about the plan of shifting the proposed indoor stadium. “First priority should be given to the main town as it is the centre of the district. Besides, we have coaches available in the town only. Earlier, Tral and Rajpora areas were given the same projects, but its unfortunate to see such lobbying being done to shift important projects away from the town,” he further said.

Another local activist, Muzammil Manzoor, said many such projects which were ‘wrongfully snatched’ from the main town. “This is a very illogical decision as town area comes with easy access for all residents as compared to travelling to some far-off village,” he contended. He appealed to the concerned authorities to reconsider their decision for the ‘greater good’ of the sports scenario in the district.

Nuzhat Ara, Divisional Sports Officer Kashmir said that the matter was brought to her notice just some days ago and she is looking into it.

Meanwhile, Nayeem Bakshi, the concerned Axen, said the indoor stadium has not been sanctioned, but only proposed by the Department.

“When the facility will be approved, we will construct it as per the will of the people. We also want the indoor stadium to be utilized by everyone who is interested, so decision will be taken after taking all the stakeholders on board,” he assured.