Cricket stadium in Baramulla in shambles due to lack of funds

The only cricket stadium in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla District is in a state of disrepair for want of funds.

"We need lot of funds and that is why the renovation work of the stadium is not taking place on a large scale. I am sure and very optimistic that we will be able to prioritise renovation next year and will be able to make it a model stadium," said Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Hussain.

The stadium does not have a levelled ground and no proper sitting arrangements. Moreover, there is no proper fencing around the stadium and no changing room for the players.

The players complained that they are facing troubles due to a building constructed in the middle of the stadium.

"There is no dressing room for the players and there is a building ahead, which is posing trouble as there is no place to play. There is no rolling, look at the outfield. When it rains, we are not able to play for five to six days. We want renovation of the stadium," said budding cricketer Habir.

The authorities, however, said so far eight lakh rupees has been spent and a further amount of Rs.50 lakh is required to finish the renovation.