Noida: Plans to upgrade the existing sports ground at Sorkha village with a dedicated running track have been approved by the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Anuj Nehra, following a meeting of the authorities and sports enthusiasts of the village.While there will be no change to the land, which is a pastureland, the makeshift sports facility will be upgraded in coordination with the Noida Authority for better use by athletes and wrestlers of the village. A copy of the SDM’s letter is with TOI.Wrestlers from Sorkha village, near Sector 115, rose to prominence between 2001 and 2014 when dozens from the village went on to play at the national-level championship. But over the years, its popularity dwindled too due to a lack of opportunities and investments.The initiative aims to foster local sporting talent and fulfil the villagers’ longstanding demand. The village has waited for over two years for improved sports facilities. This was reported earlier by TOI on April 14.The proposed sports complex will occupy approximately 4 acres of public land. This facility is expected to feature not only improved training amenities but also a running track specifically designed for girls, promoting inclusivity in sports.Villagers welcomed the move. “By personally inspecting the ground and listening to our concerns, the SDM has secured the future of the local children. This sports ground is destined to become a ‘nursery of dreams’ for our athletes,” said Indrajit Pehalwan, a resident of Sorkha.Some residents said the aim was also to safeguard public land for future generations from land grabbers. “We have stressed the need for a boundary wall around the sports ground, and a modern hall with a mat-covered floor at the wrestling arena (the akhada) to protect the training facilities for our wrestlers. The lack of a proper boundary wall has led to encroachments by the land mafia,” said Ravi Yadav, another resident of the village.
