A sports ground in Shah Faisal Town, which had been turned into a garbage dump and a haven for criminals for nearly four decades, has been officially inaugurated as a multi-purpose sports facility for local youth.
The Bilal Friend Cricket and Football Ground, located in Gulzar Colony, Union Committee No. 5, was inaugurated today by Shah Faisal Town Chairman Gohar Ali Khattak. The ceremony was attended by various officials, including the UC Chairman, local government representatives, political and social leaders, and a large number of the public.
Addressing the media, Chairman Khattak detailed the ground’s previous dilapidated condition. He explained that since 1984, the area had been known as “Kachra Ground” (Garbage Ground), identified by its broken boundary walls, the accumulation of sewage water due to poor policies, and its use by drug addicts.
Khattak outlined the phased restoration plan, which began with resolving the area’s long-standing sewerage issues to clear the stagnant water. The extensive rehabilitation included the complete reconstruction of the boundary walls and raising the ground level with over five feet of new soil brought in by hundreds of dumper trucks.
To equip the facility for sporting activities, floodlight poles have been installed, a dedicated cricket pitch has been prepared, and football goalposts have been set up, creating a functional space to promote healthy activities for the community’s youth.
The Chairman emphasized the importance of such facilities for national well-being, stating, “Populated playgrounds will give us future superstars.” He noted that while Shah Faisal has historically produced notable athletes in hockey, cricket, and other sports, a lack of resources had previously hampered the development of local youth.
“We are now giving special attention to these young people so that they can bring honor to Shah Faisal Town in the future,” Khattak said, pledging to develop similar grounds in all union committees of the town to provide deserving facilities for emerging talent.
Separately, the Chairman mentioned that since the beginning of Ramadan, all town departments are dedicated to public service, which includes ensuring excellent lighting arrangements at all local mosques and Taraweeh prayer locations.