Artificial football turf is not only reaching far and wide but it is also becoming the new face of football in the country. However, Trashi Yangtse still ails to have one. The dzongkhag started the construction of the state-of-the-art football field. However, the work is on halt due to the pandemic. But the sports enthusiasts in the town are asking the concerned stakeholders to expedite the work.
Today, most of the sports enthusiasts play football at the Trashi Yangtse Lower Secondary School football ground – the only proper ground there. However, it becomes dusty during the dry season and muddy during summer. Players also risk injuries.
Football enthusiasts said it is troublesome to play matches on such a ground. Therefore, they said it would be convenient if they have artificial turf.
“Without a proper football ground, the match becomes difficult. There are risks of injuries. If we have artificial turf, we can have better leisure time,” said Tenzin Dorji, a resident in the town.
One of the regular players, Tenzin Dorji said they have to seek approval from the school authority every time they play.
“The ground remains booked mostly and even if we get it, once a while, the ground poses a risk of injuries,” he said.
Construction of the state-of-the-art football field started in January last year, but it is only in its second phase. The project is worth Nu 14 M.
According to Dzongrab Lam Dorji, the pandemic affected the import of construction materials.
“Along with the chain-link fence, we also have to import other materials such as long iron angles. That is why the work is on halt,” he said.
However, the dzongkhag will resume construction when the COVID pandemic situation improves. The dzongkhag also plans to construct proper basketball and a volleyball court near the football field. Until then, the wait continues for sports enthusiasts.
Tshering Dendup, Trashi Yangtse
Edited by Chayku
