Athletes Stranded as Synthetic Track Deteriorates Post Police Recruitment

Pune: A synthetic track newly laid at the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sports Complex in Bhosari, Indrayaninagar, is facing severe damage shortly after its inauguration, raising questions about the expenditure of four crore rupees.

The track, designed for athletes and costing a significant investment, was found torn and riddled with potholes following the recent police recruitment tests conducted at the site, jeopardizing the usability of the facility and leaving athletes stranded without a proper practice ground.

The eight-lane, 400-meter synthetic track, which serves as the sole training facility for athletics in the Pimpri-Chinchwad region, had been replaced just a year ago due to wear and tear from regular use and environmental exposure.

Inaugurated in March 2024, it was meant to provide a state-of-the-art surface for athletes to practice and compete. However, within merely five days of being opened, the track began to show signs of damage, forcing an early closure for repairs.

The situation worsened in June when the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate held a recruitment test for constables on the track. The intense use during the recruitment process caused the track to deteriorate further, leaving the surface extensively damaged with numerous potholes. This condition has made it nearly impossible for athletes to continue their training, raising concerns ahead of upcoming competitions.

As the city prepares for the state-level athletics selection trials scheduled for September 21 and 22 at Balewadi Stadium, the possibility of further closures for repairs has sparked anxiety among athletes and coaches.

They fear that without access to a proper practice facility, their performance in the trials could be severely compromised. Several athletes and their coaches have voiced concerns, urging the authorities to keep the track open despite its condition.

Criticism has also been directed at the decision-making process regarding the track’s use and maintenance, with claims that individuals unfamiliar with the specific requirements of athletics are making uninformed decisions that adversely impact athletes.

Athletics coach Dinesh Devkate emphasized the urgent need for repairs, stating, "The track must be fixed immediately to secure the future of our athletes. Many have already missed opportunities to participate in national competitions due to these repeated setbacks."

Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh addressed the issues during a recent statement, highlighting that while the police recruitment was essential for the city, specific guidelines regarding track usage were not followed, such as the requirement for special footwear. He assured that the municipal corporation would not shield the contractor from responsibility. An independent agency will conduct a thorough inspection of the track's construction.

Should the inspection reveal substandard work or negligence, the contractor will be held financially accountable, with the funds recovered from their security deposit held by the corporation.