Swimmers in Madikeri still waiting for pool

The swimming pool at General Thimayya district stadium that was damaged in heavy rain which lashed the district in August last year is yet to be repaired.

Swimmers are disappointed as they are not able to go swimming when the temperatures have soared in the district.

Even during peak summer, the swimming pool is not open for children and the general public. The locals have urged the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports to repair the swimming pool.

The swimming pool was built by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports in 2015 at an estimated cost of Rs 2 crore. However, during the heavy rain last August, the flood water had damaged the pumpset and water purifier unit at the swimming pool.

Due to the negligence of the officials, the swimming pool repair work is moving at a snail’s pace, alleged Coorg Table Tennis Association secretary Rachan.

The schoolchildren are disappointed over the non-availability of the swimming pool. The swimming pool was available for public only for two months after its inauguration. Later, citing one or the other reason, it has remained shut for the public. The swimming pool repair work should be completed at the earliest, said Revanna from Ashok Nagara.

The authorities had taken a membership fee of Rs 1,000 from the public for the use of the swimming pool. In addition, a monthly fee of Rs 800 is fixed. Those who do not have membership will have to pay Rs 50 for one hour.

According to officials, after the repair of the swimming pool, the public will be allowed to swim from 6 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 6 pm. Even the trainers will be appointed.

Coorg Table Tennis Association President V S Mohammed Asif said that the swimming pool at the district stadium lacks basic facilities. The toilets and bathrooms are not in good condition. Suitable facilities should be provided for those who use the swimming pool.