Warns that encroachments, events, and parking on playgrounds are depriving youth of recreational spaces in Kashmir
Srinagar: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has expressed deep concern over the rampant misuse of public playgrounds and open spaces across Kashmir, warning that the trend is depriving children and youth of vital recreational areas while causing lasting environmental damage.
In a statement issued here, EPG Convenor Faiz Ahmad Bakshi said that several major playgrounds, especially in Srinagar, are being converted into parking lots, event venues, and commercial spaces, in violation of their intended public purpose. “Our public grounds are being encroached upon for short-term convenience. Playgrounds are meant for children to play, not for parking, stalls, or social functions,” Bakshi remarked.
He pointed out that during various events, temporary stalls and vehicle movement on these grounds cause serious damage to the soil and turf.
Bakshi cited the case of the Bakshi Stadium, which was redeveloped at a cost of ₹50 crore exclusively as a football stadium suitable for hosting national-level tournaments. “Ironically, every other activity other than top-level football events has been held there since its upgradation. It has been reduced to a multipurpose venue at the cost of football and youth development,” he said, adding that the misuse of the stadium symbolizes “a larger neglect of Kashmir’s already limited sports infrastructure.”
The EPG Convenor also drew attention to the Polo Ground being converted into a venue for temporary stalls during public events such as the Kashmir Marathon, and the S.P. College playground being routinely used for parking. “The S.P. College ground has deteriorated to the extent that it has become unplayable, and many children have suffered injuries. Such encroachments are shrinking the few open spaces left for our children,” he said, linking the decline in recreational access to “rising drug abuse and social vices among youth.”
Bakshi called upon the administration to initiate an inquiry into the recurring misuse of public grounds, including Bakshi Stadium and Polo Ground, and to ensure their restoration and preservation. “The government must prioritise protection of open spaces. Once the natural ground surface and green cover are destroyed, restoration is nearly impossible,” he warned.
He also highlighted the damage caused to the heritage lawns of the Kashmir Government Arts Emporium, which, according to him, “have suffered every time the space is used for social or commercial events.”
The EPG Convenor said that the organisation has repeatedly raised the issue with authorities but concrete action has been lacking. “The preservation of playgrounds is not just about sports — it’s about safeguarding the physical, mental, and social health of our community,” Bakshi concluded.
