Once crown jewels, Sirsa stadiums sport neglected look

Known for producing several international athletes and holding political significance in Haryana, Sirsa is now mourning the decaying state of its two main sports complexes Chaudhary Dalbir Singh Indoor Stadium and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium. Years of administrative neglect have left these once-iconic venues in a state of disrepair, raising serious questions about the region’s commitment to nurturing young sporting talent.

The condition of both stadiums makes it hard to believe that champions can emerge from here today. Peeling walls, broken equipment, waterlogged entrances, and overgrown fields have become the new normal. At Chaudhary Dalbir Singh Indoor Stadium, the entrance lies below the road level, causing waterlogging even with slight rain. The once-prideful title of being Haryana’s largest indoor stadium has faded, its walls haven’t seen a fresh coat of paint in years, and pieces of cement regularly fall from the ceilings. There is no proper lighting inside. Equipment meant for basketball practice lies unused and collecting dust. Despite children still practicing gymnastics in the early morning and evening hours, the space barely meets basic safety and facility standards.

Locals say the administration is fully aware of the issue. “They spend huge sums on anti-drug campaigns, but real change will only come if children are encouraged towards sports,” said a regular visitor. A 12-year-old boy practicing at the stadium echoed similar sentiments, saying, “There are no clean washrooms or drinking water here. It doesn’t feel like a stadium, it is like a ruined place.”

Constructed in 1996 with funding from the Centre, state government and residents, the stadium has hosted several national-level competitions in the past. However, it has suffered years of political and bureaucratic apathy. Congress MP Kumari Selja, whose father the stadium is named after, recently wrote to the Union Sports Minister and the state government, urging immediate renovation. Yet, no significant action has been taken.

The situation is equally grim at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium, located in the heart of the city. Once known for its lush green grounds and national events, the main field is now overtaken by wild grass. Tall grass up to two ft high covers the running track, which has become a breeding ground for snakes and rodents. The track, once built to national standards, is now reduced to a fraction of its original length. Shot put, hammer throw, and discus courts are overrun by bushes.

The stadium’s gym, located on the first floor near the main entrance, has broken windows and decaying equipment. The facility also houses an MP Facilitation Centre set up by Kumari Selja using MP-LAD funds, but it, too, has been impacted by the overall neglect. Former banker Satbir Singh, who walks in the park daily, said, “The stadium is now a hotspot for anti-social elements. Youngsters skip school and come here to indulge in substance use. We’ve informed the authorities, but enforcement is temporary at best.”

Despite the sorry state, thousands of residents still use these grounds. “People contribute money themselves to clean and maintain parts of it, but the problem is too big. The authorities must wake up,” said Rajendra, a resident. “Even top officials come here for walks, yet nothing is done.”

A young athlete who has been training at the stadium for six years said things were much better when he first started. “There were coaches, proper tracks and good management. But now, it’s all falling apart. Politicians use this place for rallies and events, but they do nothing to improve it,” he said. “When I go to other districts or states, I feel proud to see great facilities. Coming back here, it’s painful.”

Surender Bhatia, secretary of the Sirsa Nagrik Parishad, called it a clear case of negligence. “Both these stadiums were once the pride of our city. Now, they’re falling apart. We’re ready to support the administration in any way, but they must take the first step.”

District Sports Officer Jagdeep Singh said the matter had been brought to the notice of higher officials, and steps would soon be taken to improve the facilities in the stadiums. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sharma said he had received complaints about poor maintenance of the stadiums. He said he would soon ask the officials concerned to submit a complete report and speak to the senior authorities to improve the condition of the stadiums as soon as possible.