Condition of Indoor Stadium in Kashmir pathetic: Sportspersons

Srinagar, Nov 15 (UNI) Several sportspersons have expressed serious concern over the pathetic condition of the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex and blamed the authorities for it.

The stadium is in such a bad condition that Education Minister Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed recently refused to give his nod for organising the children's day programme there.

The function was scheduled to be held at the Bakshi Stadium, but was cancelled due to bad weather.

The minister reportedly described the condition of the sports complex as most ''disgraceful and shameful''.

The stadium was constructed keeping in view the extreme cold weather conditions in the Kashmir valley.

''It is unfortunate that the stadium has been left totally unattended by the authorities,'' the sportspersons said.

The renovation work of the complex had started about four years ago, but was yet to be completed despite spending a huge amount for the purpose.

Mr Sayeed, during his tenure as the Sports Minister, had sanctioned Rs 40 lakh for electrification of the complex and for installing the central heating system.

''But nothing has been done so far. We fail to understand why no action is being taken against the errant officials,'' the sportspersons said.

Besides, the complex also houses the headquarters of 50 batallion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and is virtually out of bonds for the sportspersons of the Valley, they added.

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