Dharuhera’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium reduced to garbage dumping ground

Large quantities of waste are being dumped in the open near the main gate and boundary wall of Rajiv Gandhi Sports Stadium in Dharuhera, even as a related case is pending before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), raising fresh questions over the civic body’s monitoring and enforcement.

Residents said the heap of waste has crept close enough to the stadium’s main entrance and perimeter wall that monsoon rain has been washing contaminated leachate from the pile underneath the boundary wall and onto the surrounding walkways, generating foul odour and polluting the immediate environment.

The stadium, which is not being used regularly by athletes, has effectively remained non-operational amid unchecked dumping, with residents and civic activists warning that continued waste accumulation around a public sports facility raises serious concerns about its future usability and upkeep.

“The stadium has virtually become unusable because of the garbage lying out there. There is too much stench, and it poses serious health risks, with mosquito breeding and leachate contamination adding to the problem,” said a coach.

Social activist Prakash Yadav has written to the Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Dharuhera Municipal Council and the Deputy Commissioner of Rewari, demanding immediate removal of the accumulated waste and a permanent halt to the site being used as a dumping point. He has also sought a site inspection, an assessment of leachate contamination, and accountability for the officials, staff or agency responsible for the dumping, along with penal action and environmental fines under applicable rules.

When contacted, Haryana Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Gaurav Gautam said he would look into the matter and ensure that the stadium’s “lost glory” is restored.