Click to play videoBangalore: Here's how civic apathy can cause quite a stench. Literally in this case. Once a football ground that produced former national captains like Iliyas Raja, the Vyalikaval ground is slowly becoming a garbage dump.
K S Mani and John Prasad have always loved football, and it was this Vylikaval ground which helped them nurture their passion. But today this ground which was a launch pad for many a footballer, including former Indian captain Iliyas Raja and national level players like Babu Mani and J D'Silva has been reduced to a dumping ground.
With garbage heaps and stagnant water pools replacing goal posts and balconies, members of the city's football clubs are asking for the basic infrastructure they deserve.
"Many players from all state levels are from here. They still come here to practise, there are no conveniences or facilities," says a member of the Vinayaka Football Club.
The players say they've approached the Bangalore Mahanagara Palike many times, but to no avail. However, civic authorities say tenders have been called for the ground's renovation. A budget of Rs 77 lakh has been fixed for the project, which will start shortly.
"The work will be approved by the commissioner, and within 20 days to a month work will be taken up and completed," says S N Nagaraj, Zonal Commissioner (East).
While India's still celebrating the nation's first major international victory at the Nehru Cup, it's grounds like these which seem to be waiting for a return of the glory days.
(For updates you can share with your friends, follow IBNLive on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest)
More on IBNLive Right Now
TOP NEWS
MOST SHARED
PHOTOGALLERY
