Sports hub replaces crime hotspot at Ludhiana’s old prison’s site.

Ludhiana: A notorious stretch of abandoned land once frequented by miscreants has been transformed into a ₹91-lakh mini sports park, providing a much-needed recreational outlet for residents in the Ludhiana Central assembly constituency.The project, located behind the civil hospital at the site of the city's former jail, features facilities for basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and "box cricket". For decades, the site served as little more than a garbage dump and a security concern for locals. Municipal corporation (MC) officials say the redevelopment aims to encourage physical activity in an area where green space is at a premium.
The Central constituency has long struggled with a lack of dedicated sports infrastructure. While the area contains several small parks, many residents complain that active play is often restricted or prohibited by local committees. Ashok Prashar Pappi, the member of the Punjab legislative assembly from this seat, said the project was a direct response to community feedback gathered during the 2022 election campaign.Pappi said: "We selected a place that was being used as a garbage dumping site for the last four decades. We cleaned the area and developed it into a well-maintained mini sports park. Every vacant space in the constituency will eventually be developed into a playground for the benefit of our youth."Maintenance ConcernsDespite the upgrade, some residents remain skeptical about the long-term viability of the site. Concerns have been raised regarding whether the park will remain accessible or fall into disrepair like previous civic projects. Gurdeep Singh, a resident of nearby Kidwai Nagar, noted that similar courts built under the Pakhowal Road overpass and in the Lohara area are underutilised or kept locked currently. "The initiative is good if people actually use it," Singh said. "The authorities must ensure security and a proper maintenance strategy so it doesn't return to being a wasteland."Inauguration DelayWhile the facility is structurally complete, a formal opening date has yet to be set. Sources indicate the delay is due to efforts to coordinate an inauguration ceremony featuring Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann. Simarjeet Singh, a subdivisional officer with the MC, confirmed the financial scope of the project and its current status. He said: "The total investment is ₹91 lakh, while final paint touch-ups and official opening are pending. The key beneficiaries will be the residents of Kidwai Nagar, Prem Nagar, and Brown Road." MSID:: 128606480 413 |