DDA reopens sports complexes, but keeps swimming pools shut

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) reopened 15 sports complexes, 39 fitness centres and two golf courses on Thursday, with strict adherence to social distancing norms and health protocols as per the government guidelines.
However, swimming pools will remain closed.
Two months after it was closed for public, several members hit the badminton courts, jogging tracks and golf range at the Siri Fort complex on Thursday.
“We have put up advisory outside all parks asking people to maintain a 2-metre distance, not to touch open gym equipment. Those with symptoms like cough, cold, sneezing, fever have been strictly advised not to visit any park,” a DDA official said.

Only members were allowed at the sports complexes after booking online slots so that there is no crowding, the official said. The sports complexes, which do not have online booking facilities, were asked to provide tokens to members and put up temporary receptions at main entrance, the official added.
Entry into the facilities is allowed after members download Aarogya Setu application on their mobile phones, wear face mask and gloves, carry hand sanitizers, drinking water and towels. Thermal screening of members and sanitization of shoes inside indoor sports facilities have been made mandatory.
Those above 65 years of age, children below 10 years and persons with co-morbidity and suffering from chronic disease have been prohibited from entering sports complexes and golf courses, according to the DDA.
Facilities that were opened for members on Thursday include tennis, badminton, table tennis, golf, shooting range, archery, walking and jogging track. The sports complexes will remain open from 8am to 6pm. Not more than 50 members are allowed at jogging tracks at any time. Lockers, shower and changing rooms are not available for members.