Pune: Bhosari Sports Complex Track Damaged Again After Pimpri Chinchwad Police Recruitment Test
Bhosari, 3rd September 2024: The synthetic track at the Shree Santh Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sports Complex in Bhosari, managed by the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), has been damaged once again. Four crores were spent on the track. Recently, a physical test for the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Recruitment 2024 was conducted on it, after which the damage occurred. Athletes are facing issues due to the track’s poor condition, which has also impacted their performance due to a lack of practice. Questions have been raised about the quality of the work, and there is concern that the four-crore investment may be wasted.
The only facility available for athletics practice in Pimpri-Chinchwad city is the ground in Indrayani Nagar, Bhosari. This location features a 400-meter, eight-lane artificial track. The old track had deteriorated over the years due to regular use by athletes and various competitions, as well as environmental factors. A year ago, the old track was replaced with a new one for Rs. 4 Crores. The new track was opened to athletes on 15th March 2024. However, it was damaged within just five days of use. Consequently, PCMC was forced to close the track for repairs.
In June, a physical test for constable positions in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate (PCPC) was held on this ground. Following this, the track was severely damaged, with pits forming in various areas. Athletes are now facing difficulties practising on this compromised surface. With the state-level athletics selection competition scheduled for the 21st and 22nd of September at Balewadi ground, there is concern among athletes and coaches that further repairs could hinder their preparation and impact their performance.
Athletics coach Dinesh Devkate criticized the decision-makers, alleging that those with no knowledge of athletics are making judgments about the track. He stated that continuous obstacles over the past two years have negatively affected players, with some missing out on national tournaments due to insufficient practice. Devkate called for immediate repairs to ensure the future success of the athletes.
PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh commented that a large number of candidates had used the field for police recruitment, which was essential for the city. He noted that special shoes are required for the track and stated that the contractor responsible for the track would not be supported. A third-party organization will inspect the track, and any defects or poor quality found will result in the recovery of costs from the contractor. The contractor’s deposit is held by PCMC.
