Georgetown Olympic-size swimming pool set for revival

Prayagraj: After remaining shut for seven long years, the Olympic-size swimming pool in Georgetown is finally set for revival. The state govt issued formal orders to resume the long-pending construction and repair work, clearing the way for completion of the stalled project.Work is scheduled to begin in mid-March, with the construction of a new tube well and extensive repairs forming the core of the plan. Approximately Rs 2.25 crore will be spent to complete the unfinished works. The executing agency, CDS, floated tenders following the govt's approval, and funds are expected to be released shortly so that work can proceed without further delay.
The construction of a new tube well is central to the revival plan. Renovation of the swimming pool originally began in 2019. However, in 2023, when authorities attempted to restart operations, the old tube well failed during testing. A revised Detailed Project Report (DPR), covering both the new tube well and additional repair works, was submitted for approval and has now received the govt's nod.Beyond the water supply system, the project includes rebuilding the spectator gallery, repairing the diving platform to ensure safety for swimmers, and overhauling essential infrastructure such as toilets, electrical fittings, water pipelines, and tiles. Officials set a target to complete all works by the end of April and hand over the facility to the sports department in time for the summer training season.Nearly Rs 3.25 crore was already spent earlier on renovation before the project stalled due to technical setbacks. The prolonged closure significantly impacted aspiring swimmers in the city. For the past three years, a female swimming coach posted in Prayagraj remained without a functional pool to conduct training. In the absence of a proper facility, many children were forced to practise in the Yamuna river, raising concerns about safety and a lack of structured coaching.