Swimming pools in Mumbai to open soon for competitive swimmers

Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the city of Mumbai have reduced significantly and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recently permitted some relaxations keeping the drop in mind. However, several activities like the use of public pools, is still not permitted in Mumbai. Several athletes and aspiring swimmers have demanded the same to be opened for training purposes.

Understanding the same, officials from the civic body are planning to allow competitive swimmers in Mumbai to use swimming pools run by the municipal corporation. This will be allowed only for practice currently. The use of swimming pool for the general public, for recreational purposes will not be allowed until further notice.

A report published in the Indian Express quoted Deputy Municipal Commissioner Prabhat Rahangdale, who said the authorities are contemplating the same and a file recently submitted has received ‘positive remarks.’

A request was also made to the BMC and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray by Congress leader Bhai Jagtap. Maharashtra Navnirman Kamgar Sena president, Santosh Dhuri also raised similar demands and asked for the pools to be opened for fully vaccinate citizens in Mumbai, the report said.

Though COVID-19 cases have dropped over the last few weeks, officials from the BMC are taking necessary steps to curb the spread. The city recently celebrated Ganeshotsav 2021 in a simple manner despite which there was a slight increase in cases. Guidelines were issued before the festival and similar directives have been given for Navratri 2021 as well.

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Meanwhile, GRP has made plans to develop a multipurpose sports arena on Police academy ground. Officials have decided to construct an international-level football stadium, swimming pool, and tracks with separate areas for javelin, shot put, and long jump. As per reports, the swimming pool will be made on 35 acre land which will be used for police training and recruitment. The motive behind this project is said to promote high-level sporting activities thereby creating awareness about good physical health.