New sports complex in Lahore to offer affordable membership fees

LAHORE: Residents of Lahore received a special New Year’s gift as Chief Minister of Punjab (CM) Mohsin Naqvi inaugurated the long-awaited Islamia Ground Sports Complex on the first day of the year.

The complex, which faced a seven-year delay, now opens its doors to the public.

In a symbolic gesture, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi actively participated in chess and carrom games within the newly inaugurated sports complex.

Costing Rs680 million, the Islamia Ground Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art facility located in Sant Nagar, offering a variety of sports and recreational amenities.

The caretaker Chief Minister meticulously examined the outdoor gaming facilities, including a gym, badminton indoor hall, snooker room, table tennis hall, and a swimming pool.

Expressing his admiration for the modern exercise equipment, CM Mohsin Naqvi commended the efforts of Commissioner Lahore and Ran in delivering top-notch sports facilities.

Provincial Minister Azfar Ali Nasir, along with the Secretary of Housing and the Secretary of Sports, engaged in a game of carrom with CM Mohsin Naqvi.

The Chief Minister lauded the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) team for successfully completing and unveiling the sports complex to the public, emphasising the transformation from an unfinished project to a community asset.

Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi revealed that the Islamia Ground Sports Complex project commenced in 2017 and faced a prolonged delay before its recent completion.

He acknowledged the lack of sports facilities in the area and credited the LDA for addressing this gap.

The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the Baba Ground, ensuring improved cricket facilities for the community.

With more than 20 indoor sports available for men, women, and families on the 12-Kanal complex, CM Mohsin Naqvi described it as a blessing for Santnagar residents.

Responding to queries, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi disclosed plans for outsourcing various services within the sports complex.

He noted the increasing interest in memberships, which are available for Rs200,000, allowing entire families to benefit from the facilities.

While acknowledging the relatively high membership fee, CM Mohsin Naqvi compared it to other clubs charging up to Rs4 million. He assured that considerations would be made for citizens unable to afford the higher fees.

In addressing unrelated questions from journalists, CM Mohsin Naqvi expressed support for the enforcement of driving licence regulations, emphasising the importance of obtaining a licence after years of driving.

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