Athletes report multiple shortcomings

Organisers face criticism from both participants and coaches over 'poor' accommodation, transport and amenities

- Akanksha Attri & Rishika Kriti

LUDHIANA: The 68th National School Games that kicked off in the city on December 11 have been marred by complaints from participants who have reported severe shortcomings in accommodation, transportation, and basic amenities.

Athletes, coaches, and team managers from multiple states have voiced concerns over overcrowded living conditions, unhygienic facilities, lack of proper transportation, and inadequate meals.

'Overcrowded accommodation and filthy facilities' A female judo player from Andhra Pradesh described her team's accommodation as "suffocating," with 25 players cramped into a single room. "There is a single bucket with no mug, and the washrooms are filthy," she said, adding that the players had to adjust to inadequate bathing facilities. The team coach confirmed the situation, revealing that karate players had been forced to share rooms due to a shortage of available space.

Simran, an athlete from Haryana, said that it is their third day and they have not taken a bath since there is no bathing facility at the accommodation.

Maharashtra's team, staying at a Government Girls School in Jawahar Nagar, described similar challenges. "We also have to travel to PAU for meals, which is far and inconvenient," said the team's judo coach.

Five karate players reportedly fell ill due to the unhygienic conditions.

Handball coach, Ujwala, expressed concern over the health and safety of the players.

Transportation woes Coaches from Jammu and Kashmir criticised the lack of transportation coordination, revealing that their accommodation in Dakha was far from the event venues.