Harbhajan flags garbage issue near Burlton Park

Local Bodies Minister Dr Ravjot Singh on Sunday visited the Burlton Park site to review the progress of the Rs 78 crore Sports Hub project.

During the visit, MP Harbhajan Singh said there were some delay in the project and also highlighted the presence of a garbage dump at the site, which, he said, should be cleared.

"The dump needs to be cleared immediately, especially since children and residents visit the area," said Harbhajan Singh, who also shared photographs of the dump with the minister. In response, Dr Ravjot Singh acknowledged the issue, stating, "It doesn't look nice and must be addressed at the earliest." He directed Mayor Vaneet Dhir to ensure that swift action is taken to remove it.

The problem had earlier been raised by local environmental activists, who have also expressed concern over the felling of trees for the stadium's construction. The Jalandhar Municipal Corporation’s move to cut down over 50 trees has drawn criticism from environmentalists, with many calling for reconsideration of the plan to preserve the green cover. This issue was also discussed with the minister.

During the review, Dr Ravjot Singh sought an update on the project timeline. Officials informed him that the targeted completion date is June 10, 2026. "Only 10 months are left. We will revisit the site and review the progress again in a month," he said.

Harbhajan said, "The commitments made by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal during the foundation laying event must be fulfilled. Only then people will believe that what the government says, it actually does," he said.

Calling the Sports Hub a path-breaking initiative, Ravjot said the project aims to wean the youth away from drugs and redirect their energy into the field of sports.

Highlighting its significance, the minister said the project will provide thousands of people an opportunity to engage in sports and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Horticulture Minister Mohinder Bhagat described the initiative as a milestone for the entire Doaba region, noting Jalandhar’s rich sporting legacy. He said the project holds special significance as Harbhajan began his cricketing journey from the Burlton Park, making the venue close to his heart.

Harbhajan termed this Burlton Park the nursery of many renowned cricketers. He called for speedy construction of this stadium to promote cricket in this region with a view to facilitating the budding cricketers.