Athletes protest neglect of Kathua Sports Stadium, seek better facilities

Excelsior Sports Correspondent

KATHUA, July 8: A large number of youth and athletes today staged a peaceful protest against the poor condition of the Sports Stadium Kathua, demanding immediate upgradation of sports infrastructure, including the construction of an all-weather synthetic running track and other modern facilities.

Raising slogans, the protesters alleged that the district's main sports venue has remained neglected for years, adversely affecting the training and performance of aspiring sportspersons. They urged the authorities to take immediate steps to improve the stadium and provide athletes with facilities comparable to those available elsewhere.

Among their major demands were the construction of an all-weather synthetic rubber running track, installation of high-mast lights for evening practice, provision of clean drinking water, installation of CCTV cameras, deployment of security guards and renovation of changing rooms and shower facilities.

Addressing the gathering, the protesters said hundreds of athletes from Kathua represent the district and the Union Territory in various State and national-level competitions, but inadequate infrastructure has become a major obstacle to their preparation. They stressed that sportspersons deserve quality training facilities to compete successfully at higher levels and urged the administration to prioritise the development of sports infrastructure in the district. The protesters warned that if their demands remain unaddressed, they would be forced to intensify their agitation in the coming days.