Sangrur, 30 June (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday inaugurated an Olympic-standard swimming pool at War Heroes Stadium in Sangrur, built at a cost of ₹9.50 crore. Describing the project as a major step towards reviving Punjab’s sporting culture, the Chief Minister said Sangrur has the potential to become a nursery for Asian, World and Olympic champions.
Addressing the gathering, CM Mann said the modern swimming pool has been dedicated to the youth of Sangrur and would provide athletes with international-level training facilities. He said the facility is not just a building, but a platform where future champions will be prepared.
The swimming pool has been constructed as per Olympic specifications and international standards. It measures 50 metres in length and 21 metres in width, with a depth ranging from around 4.5 feet to 7.5 feet. The pool has a water-holding capacity of nearly 2.5 lakh litres.
The Chief Minister said the complex has been equipped with modern changing rooms, shower facilities, dedicated rooms for coaches and storage rooms for athletes. A modern gymnasium has also been set up to help players with strength and conditioning. In addition, a mini swimming pool has been developed for children below seven years of age.
CM Mann said the pool has been built using advanced Myrtha RenovAction and Classic Modular System technology. It includes laminated PVC and stainless-steel panels, along with a European-standard filtration and disinfection system to ensure clean and safe water.
Highlighting the government’s focus on sports, the Chief Minister said previous governments had neglected sports and the sports budget never crossed ₹200 crore. He said the present government has increased the sports budget to ₹1,790 crore to strengthen infrastructure and support athletes.
He added that Punjab has secured the opportunity to host the Asian Hockey Championship Trophy for the first time, with matches to be held in Mohali and Jalandhar during October-November. The government will also launch Cricket and Hockey Premier Leagues to promote young talent and produce international-level players.
CM Mann appealed to parents to encourage their children to take up sports and assured that there would be no shortage of funds or facilities. Cabinet Ministers Dr. Ravjot Singh and Tarunpreet Singh Sond were also present.
Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH
