The troubles for athletes training at Nehru Stadium in Civil Lines have escalated after the Public Works Department (PWD) declared another building within the complex as dilapidated. Consequently, the basement of this building, which served as a training hub for weightlifters, has been sealed without prior notice, leaving the future of several players in limbo.
The Trigger: Safety Audit
The closure comes in the wake of a state government directive ordering safety audits at all sports complexes. This move was prompted by recent incidents in Rohtak and Bahadurgarh where athletes died in accidents during training. Following the audit, officials from the district sports department identified the building situated opposite the DSO office as unsafe and shut it down.
Impact On Athletes And Upcoming Events
More than 15 athletes, including national and state-level players who had been training under coach Manilal Yadav for years, have been displaced.
Crucial Timing: The closure has severely impacted preparations for major upcoming events. Athletes are scheduled to participate in the Open State Championship on December 18, followed by the Inter-University Games in Chandigarh on December 26.
Athlete Concerns: Weightlifters including Piyush, Tushar Punia, Nandini, Nikita, and Nandita expressed fear that the lack of practice facilities will diminish their chances of winning medals.
A Legacy Of Success Despite Lack Of Resources
Despite the lack of resources and the humble setting of the basement, the center has produced significant talent.
Achievements: Athletes training here have brought glory to the district. Tushar Punia, a national-level player, has previously won silver medals at the Haryana Games and the Khel Mahakumbh. Another athlete, Nandita, is also a national-level player.
Also Read: Delhi: Couple Suffocates To Death In Grocery Shop Fire; Trapped By Electrified Shutter
Official Response
The administration has cited safety as the primary reason for the closure but admitted to a lack of alternative arrangements.
Gurugram District Sports Officer Aarti Singh states,"The PWD has declared the building condemned. A private coach was training athletes in the basement there. The building has been closed due to the risk of an accident. Currently, we do not have any hall that can be made available to the weightlifting athletes."