RAWALPINDI: Punjab Sports Minister Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar on Sunday directed the divisional sports officer to prepare and submit comprehensive proposals on fee structures and staff shortages at sports complexes across all tehsils of Rawalpindi Division.

The move aims to further strengthen administrative efficiency and improve service delivery.

He also directed that all non-functional and damaged lights in sports complexes will be repaired and made fully operational at the earliest to ensure a conducive environment for athletes.

He emphasised that the concerned contractor would complete the work within the stipulated timeframe, after which the Project Management Unit (PMU) would submit a detailed compliance report.

He conducted a detailed visit to Tehsil Sports Complex Dhobi Ghat, Murree, where he reviewed the available sports facilities, ongoing administrative affairs and existing infrastructure.

During the visit, relevant officials briefed the minister on various sports activities, facilities and operational requirements of the complex. The minister conducted a comprehensive inspection of all sports facilities and issued several important directives aimed at improving the overall standard of the complex.

He also ordered the immediate repair or replacement of the damaged basketball ring and the affected glass panel of the swimming pool.

He stressed that maintaining all sports facilities in fully functional condition was the responsibility of the department and must remain a top priority.

Taking notice of missing facilities at the complex, the minister directed officials to include spectator shades, practice cricket pitches, GI fencing, and other necessary amenities in the development plan and initiate the required process for their provision.

He stated that modern and high-quality sports infrastructure played a vital role in nurturing young talent and promoting healthy sporting activities.

Mr. Khokhar said the Punjab government was taking serious measures to modernise the sports sector and improve the management of sports facilities across the province.

He emphasised that all sports complexes would gradually be shifted towards a sustainable and self-sustaining operational model to ensure their effective maintenance, continuous improvement and efficient management of operational expenses.

The minister also made an important announcement regarding sports development in Murree, stating that the appointment of a tehsil sports officer (TSO) for Murree would be processed immediately on a priority basis to strengthen local sports administration and facilitate athletes.

He further stated that under the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the government was committed to revitalising sports grounds across Punjab, engaging youth in positive activities, and providing world-class sports facilities.

He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to promote sports at every level and create greater opportunities for young athletes to excel at national and international platforms.

Published in Dawn, June 1st, 2026