Sportspersons’ security compromised as MA Stadium remains without gates

ribune News Service

Jammu, October 15

The security of hundreds of sportspersons attending coaching classes at MA Stadium, premier sports training centre situated in the heart of the city, has been compromised as the State Sports Council seems to be least bothered about putting gates at the main entrance, which were removed few months back during sewerage work.

The National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) had started the sewerage work at MA Stadium. In order to ensure hassle-free movement of trucks carrying pipes and other construction material, the gates at the main entrance of the stadium were removed. Sources added that after all the required work was completed by the NBCC, the gates were not put in place. This is worrying the parents of the players. The parents had apprised the authorities of the sensitive issue, but in vain.

“What to talk of constituting district sports councils when the autonomous sports body is unable to put gates at the main entrance of the stadium,” said Ramesh, a parent of a player.

“When we send our children to stadium, we pray for their safety because anything can happen in such situation and the Sports Council is not interested in doing the job done which is of utmost importance,” Ragini Kumari, a parent maintained.

“In fact, the open area is now becoming a parking slot for everyone. Anybody who fails to find space to park his/her vehicle in the busy markets of the city parks it on the MA Stadium premises,” she added.

When contacted, Shiv Kumar Sharma, Joint Secretary (Jammu), State Sports Council, said, “The department has asked the National Buildings Construction Corporation to put the gates back at the main entrance. We are in constant touch with NBCC officials as it is a matter of security of our promising players, which is our topmost priority.”