Pimpri-Chinchwad's athletes are facing major disruption as the recently constructed synthetic track at Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sports Complex in Indrayani Nagar has once again been closed for repairs.
The track, which was built with an investment of ₹4 crore by the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, had to be shut down only days after it opened, and is now expected to remain closed for two months.
The 400-meter, eight-lane synthetic track, which serves as the only practice ground for athletes in the city, was inaugurated on March 15, 2024, after being replaced a year prior.
However, just five days into its use, athletes began noticing parts of the track coming loose. This resulted in the Municipal Corporation temporarily closing it for immediate repairs.
The issue resurfaced in June when the track was used for the capacity tests for police constable candidates under the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate.
Following the event, the track sustained significant damage, including the formation of potholes, making it unsafe for further use. Consequently, the authorities have once again closed the facility, leaving athletes without a proper training venue.
Many local athletes have expressed frustration over the continuous interruptions in their training schedule. The frequent closures have impacted their preparation and performance in various competitions, sparking concerns among the local sporting community.
Municipal officials have confirmed that repair work has been delayed due to ongoing monsoon rains. Assistant city engineer Manoj Sethia stated that the track requires a 15-day rain-free period to complete the repairs, which are expected to take approximately two months.
The responsibility for the repairs lies with the contractor, whose ₹50 lakh payment has been withheld until the track is restored. Furthermore, the contractor’s security deposit is still with the Municipal Corporation as a safeguard.
