Incomplete Astroturf in Ferozepur waits for funds

Ferozepur, December 12, 2016:  The Punjab Government led by Parkash Singh Badal as Akali-BJP alliance,  is busy in laying the foundation stones of various projects in the state at the end of its political term without bothering for the completion of various projects undertaken earlier like the Astroturf – a dream of hockey lovers of Ferozepur, this border town which has produced stalwarts and Olympians.

The Astroturf, a project of Rs.11.20 crore, the foundation of which was laid three years with the target date of completion as September this year, is still incomplete for want of funds, as per the sources.

Due to lack of poor planning, the boundary wall of the Astroturf has not been constructed so far making it a thoroughfare for the students to cross over to the other road leading to the railway quarters and other colonies and on visit to the stadium, no construction work was going on and the open room constructed under the main stairs, have become a den for the anti-social elements.

It is very unfortunate that the  border town  has produced a galaxy of hockey starts – like Harmik Singh (Arjuna awardee), Ajit Singh (Olympian), Stephen Charles (Olympic gold medallist) and Gaganajit (ace Indian centre forward) but the hockey lovers are yet to be see the dream of Astroturf ground operational.

A sports lover of the town – a government employee – on anonymity said, merely laying foundation stone would not suffice, its completion is more important. The government is laying the foundation of various projects in the state but they are of no use till they are co mpleted.  He did not hesitate to say that it is all a political spectacular act to allure the voters by floating various projects, near the elections.

It is also seen that most of the hockey players are from poor families and they can bring glory not only to the border town but also to the entire country, if they are provided with better playing conditions and infrastructure.

When contacted DSO Sunil Kumar, he said, shortly the funds will be released by the government for the completion of Astroturf ground which will one of the best in the country where various events of state and national level can be organized.