SIALKOT, Aug 9: Despite passage of three years, the Punjab and district governments have failed to materialize their plan to build a hockey stadium in the city, seemingly because of a lack of planning and interest.

Former district nazim Mian Naeem Javaid had announced the project to build the stadium near Gulshan-I-i-Iqbal in 2002.

Initially, Rs75 million were allocated with a view to encourage hockey players and lovers, besides, the promotion of sports in the district. A piece of land was also selected on the main Sialkot-Pasrur road for the purpose.

Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi had laid the foundation stone of the project about two years back. Since then no development work has been executed.

It is being feared that due to the inordinate delay in the implementation of the project, the funds allocated for the purpose would lapse.

The Pakistan Sports Board had already promised to provide an austro turf for the proposed stadium.

Protest: Scores of people staged a protest demonstration on Tuesday afternoon near Nole Morr against the Uggoki police for not arresting the nominated accused who shot dead one Nadeem during a dacoity at a house in Momaan Kalan village two days back.

The protesters blocked traffic for one hour on Sialkot-Uggoki-Sambrial Road by burning tyres and were carrying banners and placards against the police.

Nadeem’s heirs alleged that Uggoki SHO Inspector Riasat Bajwa was reluctant to arrest the accused nominated in the FIR after taking bribe from them who were threatening the family with dire consequences.

The high ranking police officials reached the spot and assured the protesters about early arrest of the killer(s). On this, they restored traffic and dispersed.