LUDHIANA: Despite knowing about the worn-out condition of the 400-metre synthetic track of the
Guru Nanak Stadium, the Punjab sports department is going to conduct another district-level athletic meet there from October 8, which could prove harmful to participants in the competition. Although the authorities are aware the track can cause injuries to sportspersons, they have not taken any steps to meet the demand of local athletes for its renovation.
A few months ago, local officials of the Punjab sports department had sent a proposal to the sports ministry for renovation of the track to safeguard professional athletes from serious injuries, which can occur during different state and district-level tournaments. Apart from the track, the boy’s hostel inside the Guru Nanak Stadium has been in a dilapidated condition for the past few years.
Prem Singh, a member of the district athletic association, said: “We have appealed to the sports department officials several times for urgent renovation of the track, but nothing came of it. The maximum life of any synthetic track is seven to eight years if there is proper maintenance. The track in Guru Nanak Stadium is more than 18 years old, and used so excessively that it has become dangerous for athletes.”
One of the players participating in the district-level meet said: “Every year, several professional athletes could not participate due to the track’s abysmal condition and fear of getting injured, which can also jeopardize their career.”
District sports officer Ravinder Singh said: “The issue is under consideration of higher authorities. Soon, they will take the required steps to renovate the track. Moreover, an advisory has been released to government coaches not to make use of the track’s worst parts during the competition, so that players do not suffer any injuries.”
