Table tennis practice at Gandhi Stadium in Pilibhit has dwindled to just three registered players, according to local sports department records. The fast-paced indoor sport, which requires high levels of concentration and speed, faces an uncertain future at the venue due to a sharp decline in participation and a lack of active coaching oversight.
Five Years of Declining Numbers at Gandhi Stadium
The facility’s indoor court was established approximately five years ago following an official proposal by local sports administrators. Officials equipped the venue with tables, rackets, and other necessary gear to attract local athletes. While initial months showed encouraging local interest, participation dropped off sharply within a short timeframe. Records show that only three players are currently registered with the sports office to use the facility.
Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium, #Vijayawada🔸Phase-1 developmental works started with ₹60 Crs, synthetic athletic tracks, volleyball courts, tennis courts, and basketball courts to come up in this phase.#AndhraPradesh #SportsInfra pic.twitter.com/eEOHRBoR3C
Competition and practice numbers at Gandhi Stadium are simply too low,
said Rohit Gangwar, a table tennis player from Pilibhit. Fellow player Salman noted that he previously used the facility regularly, but falling attendance eventually disrupted his training routine.
Maintenance Concerns and Missing Coaches
With only three athletes actively using the indoor hall, upkeep on the table tennis court has slipped. Sports office staffing has also failed to keep pace with initial promises. When the facility opened, administrators indicated that a dedicated coach would be assigned to the venue. However, local sports authorities did not follow through with sustained outreach to boost player numbers, leading to an exodus of regular participants.
District Sports Officer Anurag Singh stated that officials are currently working to raise awareness about the sport among local youth. Singh added that a formal request has already been dispatched to the sports directorate to secure a dedicated instructor for the stadium.
Facility Details and Current Status
- Venue: Gandhi Stadium, Pilibhit
- Sport: Table Tennis
- Active Registrations: 3 players
- Facility Age: Approximately 5 years
- Reported Issue: Lack of coaching staff and dwindling attendance affecting court maintenance
District sports officials have not yet announced a confirmed timeline for when a dedicated coach might arrive at the venue.
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