Nishar Mohammed &Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Jan 11: Sports lovers of Andaman and Nicobar Islands are fervently calling for the immediate repair and upgrade of the Rajiv Gandhi Velodrome located at Netaji Sports Complex. The sole velodrome in the A&N Islands is currently in deplorable condition, posing a serious threat to the safety of sports persons and posing threat to their sporting careers.
The deteriorating condition of the cycling track, collapsed water drainage system, damaged fencing, and seating areas, coupled with rampant vegetation growth on the ground and fences, reflects the alarming state of neglect in maintenance. The rooms beneath the velodrome, once utilized for storage, camps, gym facilities, and toilets, are now in a dilapidated state, necessitating a comprehensive makeover.
Sports enthusiasts assert that the Rajiv Gandhi Velodrome, constructed in 1995, harbours inherent technical defects that have persisted since its inception. However, in its early days, the Rajiv Gandhi Velodrome served as a hub for cycling training, with the ground inside doubling as a Hockey Ground where state-level matches were a regular feature. However, the current state of neglect has led to a drastic decline in sporting activities throughout the year. The once vibrant arena, echoing with the cheers of cycling enthusiasts and hockey fans, now stands largely dormant. The absence of events and training sessions not only dampens the spirits of the sports community but also signifies the urgent need for the proposed renovation to breathe life back into these neglected sporting facilities.
Senior officials at Netaji Stadium acknowledged the critical condition of the velodrome, attributing it to the impact of the Tsunami. They revealed that due to the extensive damage, renovation is not feasible, and a new construction process has been initiated. The proposal for the new construction has been submitted for approval to the Ministry, and the stakeholders await the necessary clearance.
He added that many appeals have been submitted to the government urging the approval of the “Velodrome Project” funding.
Meanwhile, the sports lovers demand the necessity of immediate action to commence the new construction of the velodrome and hockey playground. The proposed project is seen as essential not only for local sports development but also for attracting and facilitating international-level training.
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