The introduction of monthly membership charges at the Mardan Sports Complex has triggered widespread concern among residents, who fear the move could restrict access to sporting facilities for young people from low and middle-income families. Under the revised arrangement, users of the complex are now required to pay monthly fees of Rs500 and Rs1,000 to avail themselves of walking, running, and other sports facilities. This decision has prompted strong criticism from citizens, parents, and social activists.
Public Welfare vs. Revenue Generation
Residents argue that the sports complex was established as a public welfare facility aimed at promoting physical fitness, healthy recreation, and the mental development of the youth, rather than as a source of revenue generation. They warned that imposing mandatory fees could discourage participation in sports, particularly among those unable to afford the additional financial burden.
“There is growing anxiety that people who fail to pay the membership charges may eventually be denied entry altogether,” said a local resident. “If access to public sports facilities becomes conditional upon one’s ability to pay, the objective of promoting sports among the younger generation will be undermined.”
Concerns from Civil Society
Members of civil society questioned whether the authorities had considered the implications of the decision for underprivileged communities. They noted that public sports facilities play a vital role in steering young people towards positive activities. “Sports grounds should remain accessible to all segments of society,” another resident observed. “Keeping these facilities active and populated encourages healthy lifestyles, strengthens social cohesion, and can even help reduce pressure on healthcare services by promoting preventive health.”
Call for Policy Review
Citizens and community representatives have urged the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial Sports Minister to review the policy and devise a mechanism that safeguards access for deserving and economically disadvantaged youth. They proposed that students, low-income users, and talented young athletes be exempted from the charges or provided subsidised memberships to ensure that financial constraints do not become a barrier to participation.
Official Response
Responding to concerns raised by this correspondent, the District Sports Officer said the collection of membership fees had been introduced under a policy approved by the provincial government. “The fee structure has been fixed by the provincial authorities and has been in place previously as well,” he said, adding that national and provincial-level athletes, as well as female players, were exempt from the charges.
However, the clarification has done little to allay public concerns, with many residents maintaining that public sporting facilities should prioritise inclusion and community welfare over revenue considerations.
