The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, November 6: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has expressed grave concern over the increasing misuse of public playgrounds and open spaces across Kashmir, saying the practice is depriving children and youth of their fundamental right to recreation while causing irreversible environmental harm.
In a statement, EPG Convenor Faiz Ahmad Bakshi said several playgrounds, particularly in Srinagar, have been turned into parking lots, event venues, and commercial spaces in complete disregard of their intended purpose. “Our public grounds are being encroached upon for short-term convenience. Playgrounds are meant for children to play — not for parking, stalls, or social functions. During such events, stalls are erected by digging the ground, and heavy vehicles carrying materials are often seen moving across the field,” Bakshi said.
Citing the example of Bakshi Stadium, Bakshi said the premier football venue, redeveloped at a cost of Rs 50 crore to host top-level national football tournaments, is now being used for cricket matches and non-sporting events. “Ironically, every activity except national football tournaments has been held there since its upgradation. The misuse of Bakshi Stadium reflects the broader neglect of our limited sports infrastructure. It has been reduced to a multipurpose venue at the cost of football and youth development. Despite the huge expenditure, no one seems to own responsibility,” he remarked.
Bakshi further noted that temporary stalls often occupy the Polo Ground during events such as the Kashmir Marathon, while the S.P. College ground is frequently used as a parking lot, leaving it in a state unfit for play and causing injuries to children. “Such encroachments are shrinking the few open spaces left for our children. Alienation from physical activity is one of the factors driving youth towards drugs and social vices,” he warned.
Urging the administration to act swiftly, Bakshi called for an inquiry into the repeated misuse of major grounds, including Bakshi Stadium and Polo Ground. “The government must prioritise the protection of open spaces. Once the natural surface and green cover are destroyed, restoration becomes nearly impossible,” he said, adding that the recurring damage to the heritage lawns of the Kashmir Government Arts Emporium during events is another glaring example of negligence.
He said the EPG has repeatedly raised the issue at various administrative levels but lamented the absence of tangible action. “Preserving playgrounds is not just about promoting sports — it’s about protecting the physical, mental, and social well-being of our community,” Bakshi concluded.
