The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have cast a long shadow over sporting activities in Jammu, with stadiums across the city wearing a deserted look as young athletes stay away out of safety concerns.
The usually bustling MA Stadium, KK Hakku Stadium, Mini Stadium Parade, and other sports venues have been eerily quiet over the past two days following Pakistan’s massive drone and shelling attacks on Indian cities, including Jammu.
“We are unable to practice. This is a crucial time as we were preparing for national championships,” said Adhira Kanotra, a national-level skater.
“We’re just waiting for things to get better,” echoed athlete Dhwani Nanda, who usually trains at the MA Stadium skating rink.
STADIUMS EMPTY, DREAMS ON PAUSE
According to Suraj Bhan Singh, Manager of the Indoor Complex at MA Stadium, over 500 athletes usually train daily, but the past two days have seen the venue completely empty.
“Only officials, coaches, and ground staff are present,” Singh confirmed.
Divisional Sports Officer Jammu, Baljinder Pal Singh, said there were no official restrictions, but athletes are staying away voluntarily.
“All sections remain open, but attendance has dropped drastically. On Thursday, minimal turnout; today, not a single athlete came,” Singh said, noting that over 1,000 registered athletes across gymnastics, Wushu, judo, boxing, and badminton have been affected.
Other key sports venues, including Shastri Nagar Stadium and Green Field Ground, also reported zero attendance.
IPL SUSPENDED AMID ESCALATING MILITARY TENSIONS
In a related development, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been suspended for a week with immediate effect due to the worsening military standoff between India and Pakistan.
This marks the first time the world’s richest cricket league has been halted due to geopolitical tensions, underscoring the severity of the current situation.
