SRINAGAR: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has expressed grave concern over the growing misuse of public playgrounds and open spaces in Kashmir, warning that such practices are depriving children and youth of their right to recreation while causing lasting environmental damage.
In a statement, EPG Convenor Faiz Ahmad Bakshi said that several public grounds, especially in Srinagar, are being converted into parking areas, event venues, and commercial spaces in complete disregard of their 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 said. He added that the setting up of stalls and the movement of vehicles during events severely damage the turf and natural surface of these spaces.
Bakshi cited Bakshi Stadium as a telling example, saying that the stadium—originally developed as a premier football ground for Rs 50 crore—is now being used for cricket matches and non-sporting activities. “Every other event, except top-level national football tournaments, has been held at Bakshi Stadium 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 symbolises a larger neglect of Kashmir’s already limited sporting infrastructure.
He also referred to the Polo Ground, where temporary stalls were set up during the Kashmir Marathon, and the S.P. College ground, which frequently doubles as a parking lot. As a result, Bakshi said, the ground has become unplayable, and several children have suffered injuries. “Such encroachments are shrinking the few open spaces left for our children. This alienation from physical activity is one of the factors pushing youth towards drugs and social vices,” he warned.
The EPG convenor urged the administration to order an inquiry into the repeated misuse of major grounds, including Bakshi Stadium and Polo Ground, and to take immediate corrective measures. “The government must prioritise the protection of open spaces. Once the natural ground surface and green cover are destroyed, restoration is nearly impossible,” he said, pointing to the recurring damage caused to the heritage lawns of the Kashmir Government Arts Emporium whenever they are used for events.
Bakshi said the EPG has repeatedly raised the issue at various administrative levels but regretted the absence of meaningful action. “The preservation of playgrounds is not just about sports — it’s about safeguarding the physical, mental, and social health of our community,” he said.
