LAHORE: The renovation of a multifunctional public sports arena operated by the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) in Samanabad neighbourhood was in final stage which would soon be completed.
The sports arena was originally opened by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) in 1981, and administrative control of Samanabad Sports Arena was transferred to PHA in 1998, said PHA spokesperson here on Sunday. Over five acres of land, the renovation of the Arena was carried out in 2013 and now, under the incumbent PHA director general, Muhammad Tahir Wattoo, extensive renovation work was initiated last year to restore the facility to its former glory.
The members-only complex boasts a range of amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pool, snooker room, and courts for badminton, squash, and table tennis. Additionally, aerobics classes are also offered.
Situated in one of Lahore’s oldest and most central neighbourhoods, the arena provides convenient access from all corners of the city, the spokespers
on noted. To ensure the financial sustainability of the facility, the PHA had implemented measures such as offering memberships and renting out cricket grounds for private functions, he said.
Plans are also in place to engage the local community through outreach programmes and advisory boards to better align with community needs, he added. Recognizing the growing fitness culture in Lahore, the spokesperson highlighted the importance of providing accessible sports facilities. Many individuals, unable to afford private facilities in upscale neighbourhood like Gulberg and Defence, rely on public spaces for their fitness activities. In response to this need, the PHA had organised events like tent pegging to promote traditional sports and had introduced initiatives such as a yoga club and a modern rubber jogging track at Racecourse Park. “We are dedicated to extending opportunities of sports and recreational activities to Lahorites,”affirmed the spokesperson. “Our facilities attract individuals from all over the
city, eager to quench their thirst for fitness’ he added.