Hostel of Pong Dam centre in urgent need of repairs
The 100-bed hostel at the Pong Dam Water Sports Centre is in dire need of repairs, raising concerns among staff, trainees and local authorities.
Established in 1980 on 77 canals of leased land from the Bhakra Beas Management Board, the centre has been a significant hub for water sports training over the years.
Despite its importance, the condition of the hostel has severely deteriorated. The discoloured outer walls have lost their plaster and broken balconies, peeling plaster and structural damages now make the building resemble a relic of a bygone era. Staff and visitors alike have expressed concerns over its deteriorating state, which now urgently requires repairs.
The centre, run by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, has been an important destination for training in kayaking, rowing, water safety, river rafting, sailing and more. It hosts a variety of water sports courses throughout the year, with trainees from the Indian Army, Air Force, universities, and private organisations.
The centre also offers specialised training in swimming, canoeing, motorboat handling, jet skiing and e-hydro sports, making it a key player in the development of water sports in the region. It serves as a crucial training ground for both civilians and personnel from the armed forces.
The 100-bed hostel facility is intended to provide a comfortable space for trainees, but its current condition is far from adequate. Staff and enthusiasts believe that renovating the hostel would not only improve training conditions but also enhance the centre’s appeal as a tourist and adventure sports destination.
Bodh Raj, an employee leader from Talwara, has formally requested Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to expedite repairs to the hostel building. “It is essential that the state government acts swiftly to restore and repair the hostel so that the centre can continue to attract both tourists and trainees,” he said.
Director of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Avinash Negi, confirmed that a proposal for renovation was recently submitted to the Himachal Pradesh Government. He further informed that the Himachal Pradesh Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA) shared necessary details for the renovation plan, which is now being prioritised. The renovation will be carried out in multiple phases to avoid any delays in government approval and ensure the speedy restoration of the hostel.
Given its historical significance and continued role in shaping the future of water sports in the region, the Pong Dam Water Sports Centre awaits prompt attention to ensure it continues to serve its purpose effectively for years to come.
Jalandhar