The Arunachal Swimming Association (ASA) has formally appealed to the state government for the urgent restoration of the Olympic-standard swimming pool located at the Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy. During a meeting on Tuesday, ASA Secretary-General Tanya Agu and Joint Secretary Pinku Basar briefed Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini on the critical challenges currently facing the state’s swimming fraternity.
The association highlighted that the non-functional status of the facility has brought training activities and coaching programs to a standstill. The lack of a viable practice venue has severely hindered the preparation of aspiring athletes for both state and national-level competitions. Most notably, the ASA informed the Minister that the absence of a functional pool has made it impossible for the association to participate in the upcoming Arunachal State Games.
The delegation emphasized that interest in swimming among the youth is at an all-time high, yet the lack of infrastructure remains a significant barrier to nurturing this local talent. They argued that reviving the Olympic-standard facility is essential for Arunachal Pradesh to remain competitive on the national stage and to provide athletes with a path to professional success.
In response, Minister Kento Jini assured the representatives that the department would treat the matter with seriousness. He pledged that necessary steps for the renovation and restoration of the swimming pool would be considered promptly.
Local sports enthusiasts and stakeholders remain hopeful that a swift intervention will not only encourage greater participation in aquatic sports but also empower the state’s swimmers to bring home laurels in future championships.
