The stadium in Kendrapara. Telegraph picture

Kendrapara, Oct. 3: The sprawling sporting complex here has failed to cater to the needs of upcoming athletes and sportspersons, because of the government’s alleged indifference to it’s maintenance.

The stadium has been lying abandoned since it became operational six years ago. Absence of periodic maintenance measures has taken a toll on the stadium.

For most part of the year, the stadium at Saranga wears a deserted look as sportspersons shy away from turning up because of lack of infrastructure and basic facilities.

“It’s a classic case of how the government funds go down the drain. The stadium was inaugurated with much fanfare in 2006. It had instilled great hopes in budding sporting talents. But, the stadium is of no use to them,” said Debdas Mohanty, a local resident.

“The stadium’s sorry state of affairs bears testimony to the fact that sporting activity stays least on the list of priorities of the government agencies. It has come up on nine acres with a ground to hone skill in sports. But, the facilities are of no use because of lack of initiative on part of government officials,” said Bijoy Das, a member of the district athletics’ association.

The foundation stone of the stadium was laid on October 5, 1993. However, it took 13 years to complete it for Rs 1 crore.

Everything has gone awry as far as managing the stadium is concerned. Though the complex was inaugurated in 2006, it is yet to be officially handed over to the district sports and youth affairs department.

However, the public works department, which has nothing to do with sports, continues to be the stadium’s custodian. It does not have even watchmen to guard it.

The stadium is bereft of basic provisions such as water and electricity supply.

“I am aspiring to become a sprinter. But, the stadium here is not coming to my use. The ground is uneven. Nothing is being done to trim the grassy bushes that have come up. I prefer local college and high school ground for practice,” said Ashok Pradhan, 14, a high school student.

District collector Durga Prasad Behera said: “The administration has decided to renovate the stadium. It is being handed over to the sports and youth affairs department for better management. There are plans to organise a series of sporting events.”