Rains water accumulates in Bijbehara sports stadium
Athletes, locals question site selection
Anantnag: The newly constructed Sports Stadium at Nilandruss Bijbehara in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district has been left waterlogged, resembling more of a pool than a sports facility, local sports persons alleged on Monday.
The situation has triggered outrage among locals, who are questioning the planning and execution of the project by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council.
Residents alleged that despite claims of adhering to Detailed Project Report (DPR) guidelines, the stadium witnessed flood-like conditions after a brief spell of rainfall.
“If this is what happens within two days, what will be the fate of the facility in future?” asked a group of young sportspersons who had gathered outside the stadium gates.
Locals say the authorities made a fundamental error by constructing the project in a marshy, low-lying area that often remains inundated during rains.
“Why wasn’t the facility constructed at a safer location,” questioned te residents, adding that the choice of site reflects “poor planning and disregard for ground realities.”
MLA Bijbehara, Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri, also expressed disappointment, saying his repeated warnings had gone unheard.
“I had advised authorities not to construct the stadium and indoor sports centre at Nilandruss as it is a marshy and flood-prone area. Instead, I had suggested Nanil, where 422 kanals of land were available. Unfortunately, my advice was ignored,” Veeri said.
He added that he had even cautioned the then Minister and Secretary of the Sports Council during public programs to take corrective steps such as raising the ground level through earth filling, building protective walls, and ensuring a robust drainage system.
“The project is useful and well-intentioned, but it will remain vulnerable to flooding unless immediate corrective measures are undertaken,” he warned.
Athletes and sports enthusiasts in the area echoed the same concerns, stating that the present condition of the stadium has demoralized them.
“We were excited to have a better stadium here, but seeing it submerged has dashed our hopes. The government must fix this before it becomes a wasted investment,” said one local footballer.
Meanwhile, residents have urged the Lieutenant Governor and concerned minister to order an inquiry into whether DPR norms were actually followed in the execution of the project and on what basis this site was chosen.
They have also demanded urgent measures to make the facility usable, including a drainage network and ground elevation.
