During the ongoing 63rd National Open Athletics Championships at Sree Kanteerava Stadium, a reliance on “jugaad” (quick fixes) highlighted the poor condition of the track, especially during sprint races.
Key Issues:
- Starting Blocks: Due to the worn-out synthetic track, volunteers were seen manually stabilizing starting blocks for sprinters. The track’s deterioration has made it difficult for the equipment to be properly anchored, requiring human assistance to ensure a stable start.
- Track Condition: Replaced in early 2022 at a cost of Rs 5 crore, the track quickly began to deteriorate, resembling Bengaluru’s infamous pothole-ridden roads. The synthetic surface has worn thin in high-usage areas, leading to holes and exposing the underlying asphalt.
- Impact on Athletes: Athletes have to contend with unsteady starting blocks, which can affect performance and increase the risk of injury. Many runners have expressed frustration with the lack of proper equipment and track conditions, which force them to “adjust” to substandard conditions.
Statements from Officials:
- A Rajavelu, technical director for the event and secretary of the Karnataka Athletics Association, explained that the track, intended as a practice surface, has worn out more quickly due to heavy usage and adverse weather. Patchwork repairs are done regularly to address the issues.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining sports infrastructure in India, where quick fixes often replace long-term solutions.
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