After a long period of neglect, the playground of the traditional Golam Mustafa (GM) Pilot High School in Phulbari, Dinajpur, has regained its vitality as renovation work has begun. Locals said that this field was once the main playground of Phulbari town. Various sports, including football, were regularly practiced here.
In the 1990s, the much-discussed Ayub Ali Challenge Gold Cup football tournament of North Bengal was also held at this field. However, after the political change in 2009, the field fell victim to neglect and mismanagement for a long time.
Locals said that due to the construction of houses and roads around the field, the drainage path was blocked. As a result, the field was waterlogged most of the year and sports were almost stopped. Due to long-term neglect, potholes were formed across the field and the goal posts were damaged.
Former Managing Committee President of GM Pilot High School and former Upazila Executive Officer Ishaq Ali said that a 170-meter-long master drain and a box culvert have been constructed for the field renovation and water drainage. In addition, soil was filled to level the field. The entire work was completed at a cost of 16 lakh 15 thousand 525 taka.
Local residents said that as a result of the renovation, water is being drained easily from the school premises and the surrounding area. In addition, the field has become suitable for sports again. Local sports enthusiasts expressed hope that through regular use of the field, opportunities for children and teenagers to play will increase and Phulbari will once again be known as a sports-friendly area.
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