Kohli kick-starts ‘Fit Central’ playgrounds with walking tracks in Jalandhar

In a unique initiative aimed at promoting fitness and active lifestyles among all age groups, AAP Jalandhar (Central) halqa in-charge Nitin Kohli on Thursday kick-started a “Fit Central” project.

Under the project, modern sports playgrounds will be developed across all 23 wards of the constituency, equipped with floodlights, turf walking tracks and facilities for games such as badminton, football, volleyball and cricket.

The project work has commenced with the construction of synthetic volleyball court in a five-acre park in Surya Enclave and a synthetic badminton court in Adarsh Nagar Park. Another synthetic volleyball court is expected to be inaugurated in the Rama Mandi area by August 15. The people of the constituency will have access to modern playgrounds equipped with quality sports facilities, allowing them to enjoy games even during evening hours.

A sports goods manufacturer himself, Nitin Kohli emphasised on the pressing need to bring children, youth and adults back to physical activity, especially in a time when social media, mobile phones, and gadgets were becoming increasingly dominant in daily life.

“Diseases are on the rise, and one of the key reasons is distancing ourselves from sports and clinging to screens. We must reverse that,” said Kohli, who has personally been associated with sports for over 45 years.

Kohli further said, “The leagues won’t be just for the youth. These will be for people of all age groups. Since the playgrounds will be set up within wards, parents won’t have to worry about their children’s safety while they play. In fact, even women, who usually stay at home will get an opportunity to participate and adopt a fitter lifestyle.”

According to the plan, once playgrounds are completed by October-end, an inter-ward prize-money league will be organised, covering all four sports. Separate leagues will be introduced for boys, girls, women, men and veterans, promoting inclusivity and wide participation. The prize money will be announced in due course, making this one of the first such competitive leagues at the constituency level.

Nitin Kohli will sponsor free playing kits and sports equipment for participants, ensuring accessibility to all sections of society. He said, “This is not just about fitness. It’s about discipline, leadership, teamwork and building a healthier and stronger community.”

The goal is to involve 2,000 to 3,000 individuals in the first phase, gradually expanding participation to 20,000 people across various age groups and disciplines over the next five years.

Jalandhar