Sports projects at KMC sports complex yet to be completed

KARACHI: Sports projects at KMC's sports complex at Kashmir Road are yet to be completed although 90 percent development work was completed long ago.

The projects have been delayed mainly because of the lethargic attitude of KMC officials. The death of the contractor is also a reason, said a source. Because of this many activities cannot be organised at the most favourite sports complex of the citizens.

The projects had already been delayed because of financial crisis in the KMC but after the death of its contractor it would be further delayed, sources said. A KMC official said it has been facing a financial crisis. “Thus, there is no chance of paying attention to sports projects right now,” he added.

A KMC sports director told 'The News' that delay in the completion of sports projects was due to the death of the contractor. But this issue has been resolved and tenders for the completion of remaining ten percent development work in the sports complex would be called in a few days, he claimed.

The director further said that during the summer vacations KMC sports department would organise a camp at the sports complex even if the remaining 10 percent development work was not completed.

The projects include a bowling alley, new squash courts, a futsal arena, badminton courts, a volleyball court, three cricket practice pitches and a football ground. Futsal and bowling have become highly popular among the young generation of the city in the last 10 years or so.

Besides, a pavilion has been built which can accommodate more than 2000 spectators. The pavilion is in front of the football and athletics facilities. A tartan track was included in the initial plans but was later dropped because of lack of financial resources. But an official said the tartan track would be laid so that the place could be made a “true sports paradise”. There is only one tartan track in Sindh, at PSB-owned coaching centre , but it completed its life many years ago. The PSB has not bothered to replace it.