55 slum kids set to realise their skating dream

Parvesh Sharma

Tribune News Service

Sangrur, June 22

As many as 55 children from weaker sections will be imparted training in roller skating under the “Tandarust Punjab” mission. Around 300 participants showed up for the trials at the Police Lines here.

With the help of locals, the police have arranged funds for them.

“We have the best skating rink here and are providing all facilities. The kids’ parents expressed their helplessness, saying they could not afford the expenses. They requested the authorities to do something for the budding skaters. We have selected 55 children for the training,” said Mandeep Sidhu, SSP, Sangrur.

The children are from slums. With the help of some social workers, the police have provided good quality skates costing Rs 5,000 each, while the total amount to be spent is Rs 2,75,000.

“Though I wanted to learn skating last year, the financial condition of my family did not allow me to do so. It’s a dream come true for me and my family,” said a girl.

ASI Ramesh Kumar, coach, Police Lines, said skaters from across Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh came to Sangrur for practice.

“Since we have the best of facilities here, children from other states too are showing interest. We hope these 55 children will scale heights and settle for not less than gold medals,” said Kumar.