Indian Express 11.11.2010
Thane civic body bans cultural activities in Dadoji stadium
Taking strong objection against the use of Dadoji Konddev stadium in Thane for cultural events, Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) Commissioner R A Rajeev has decided not to allow the stadium for any other activities other than sports.
The decision has been taken after officials and sportsmen had complained that little time was given for sports activities in the stadium. According to them, it becomes problematic for the TMC officials to deny permission as almost all cultural programmes have the support of some political party.
“As per the order, the stadium won’t be given for any commercial activity,” said Sandeep Malvi, officer-in-charge of the stadium. The stadium, according to TMC, will be upgraded to international level and more facilities will be made available there.
“Whenever the stadium is closed for cultural activities, the players go as far as Priyadarshini Park in Napean sea or Kandivili. The stadium doesn’t have synthetic tracks. During the cultural activities, the tracks are dug to erect tents because of which many players suffer injuries,” said Ajit Kulkarni who coaches athletes at the stadium. The stadium has facilities for badminton, cricket, table tennis and squash.
