Visakhapatnam: Even as many projects are being taken up to make the city smart, lack of adequate open playgrounds and events being conducted throughout the year on the existing ones is leaving no space for city youngsters to play outdoor games.
For instance, the Andhra University’s Engineering College Ground is one of the most preferred playgrounds in the city. However, events and exhibitions of both government and private parties are being held on the ground throughout the year.
Regular visitors to the ground said a big event would occupy the major part of the ground space for almost 10 days for sure, even if that was being conducted for 3-4 days. “We don’t have any option, but to sit at home and play indoor games or computer games,” said M. Venu, a youth residing near AU University. “Two grounds of AU in Vizag city have good space in the city for outdoor games. Hence, thousands of children, youngsters prefer them and even elder persons also use the ground for the morning and evening walk,” he added.
The situation is no different for the GVMC’s Indira priyadarshini Stadium, which remains occupied with events and is not in a good condition.
Some youngsters also opined that parks were being developed spending crores of rupees, but they are not maintained well. Moreover, no space is being allotted for open playgrounds.
“We make slogans for a healthy and fit city. But, when there are no open playgrounds to play, how we can expect that children and youths would stay healthy,” said a government sports teacher, not wanting to be named.
