Chandigarh: Neglected Sector-48 amphitheatre awaits its opening act

Built amid much fanfare seven years ago, the amphitheatre in Sector 48 turns into a virtual lake every time it rains. Fresh showers left the open air facility inundated, with rainwater entering the employees’ residences on the complex.

Built under the Central Government’s Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme launched by the Prime Minister in June 2015, the amphitheatre was part of the larger urban transformation plans.

Since its inauguration in 2018, not even a single event has been held here. Wild grass and weeds have taken over the facility.

RK Verma, a resident of the area, said the government spent crores on the construction of the theatre only to forgot about its very existence.

“The entire area was under water after the rain this week,” he said, adding that he and his neighbours were hopeful of the theatre hosting cultural activities and adding value to the sector when it was first inaugurated.

Rajan Kumar, another resident, said the theatre was envisioned as a recreational centre for the southern sector residents. “It was planned that the artistes from the city and neighbouring areas would come and showcase their talent,” he said, blaming the lack of proper planning for turning the facility into a hub for frogs, mosquitoes and other animals.

Area councillor Rajinder Kumar Sharma said he would look into the issue soon. “I will meet the officers of the Municipal Corporation to make the arrangements for proper drainage. I will also ensure that artistes come and perform at the venue,” he said.

Meanwhile, waterlogging continues to wreak havoc in various places of the city. The fresh showers left low-lying areas of the city, including the underbridges in Sector 15 and Industrial Area inundated, and the parking lots of Sectors 32 and 43. Residents of Daria village said the roads were completely flooded in the area.