Delhi Water Sports Clubs Face Eviction From DDA Land

The Delhi Development Authority has ordered five water sports clubs near the Sonia Vihar Water Treatment Plant to vacate encroached land, leading to a potential halt in sports activities. The Delhi Rowing Association argues that this would affect training for athletes, many from low-income backgrounds.

The Delhi Development Authority has instructed five water sports clubs to vacate land near the Sonia Vihar Water Treatment Plant, asserting that the area is unlawfully occupied. This announcement was made official in notices circulated last week urging the departure within three days.

Represented by the Delhi Rowing Association, these clubs include key names such as the Vasundhara Rowing Club and Sonia Vihar Water Sports Club. They offer vital rowing, kayaking, and canoeing facilities. Jai Karan Chaudhary of the association highlighted the potential harm to athletes, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The clubs provide unique sporting opportunities in the Delhi-NCR region, which might come to an end if the eviction proceeds. The association also criticized the move, arguing that it contradicts government sports initiatives like Khelo India. Despite the deadline, no enforcement has yet been reported.