Peshawar Gymkhana Ground Faces Scrutiny Over Alleged Low Rent and Deteriorating Cricket Facilities
Peshawar Gymkhana Ground, situated adjacent to Arab Niaz Stadium, is under scrutiny as concerns rise over its low rent and deteriorating cricket facilities. The ground, a relic of the British Raj era with historical significance, hosts numerous private cricket clubs, totaling more than 28, who capitalize on the passion of cricket enthusiasts.
Private cricket clubs operating on the grounds charge
substantial fees from cricket-loving individuals, including a membership fee of
5,000 rupees. Additionally, an exorbitant amount, exceeding 30,000 rupees, is
reportedly extracted as admission fees and for cricket-related accessories such
as track suits and bags. This has raised eyebrows, as parents and players
demand an inquiry into the exorbitant charges levied by these private clubs.
Contrastingly, the Gymkhana, owned by the town's sports
authorities, allegedly receives a meager rent of only two thousand rupees for
the grounds. With over 80,000 rupees flowing in from these cricket facilities,
the discrepancy between what the government-owned Gymkhana receives and what
private owners pocket has sparked public concern.
Furthermore, the cricket facilities are reportedly suffering
from neglect, with nets in a state of disrepair and only one functioning tube
well providing inadequate water supply for players. This has led to grievances
from players and parents who argue that the revenue generated from the private
clubs should be reinvested in improving the infrastructure and facilities for
the aspiring cricketers using the ground.
The situation is further complicated by the alleged
involvement of Khalid Khan, the former Director General of Sports in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa, who was reportedly granted the turf for the promotion of cricket.
Questions have been raised about the transparency of this arrangement and
whether it aligns with the best interests of the cricketing community.
As the controversy unfolds, calls for a comprehensive inquiry into the rental agreements, revenue distribution, and the overall management of Peshawar Gymkhana Ground are gaining momentum. Cricket enthusiasts and concerned citizens are urging the authorities to address these issues promptly to ensure the equitable distribution of resources and the improvement of cricket facilities for the benefit of the local cricketing community.
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