Summary:
"We have no option but to demolish a portion of the swimming and diving pools for the 16-nation hockey World Cup. BHUBANESWAR: The state government faced flak from various quarters over its decision to close down the lone swimming pool for indefinite period from Thursday.Hundreds of professional swimmers, athletes, sports hostel inmates and general public staged dharna outside the swimming pool protesting against the decision. They also demanded immediate rollback of the decision.An official notification issued by the sports department stated that activities in the swimming pool would be ceased for complete renovation of the sports complex. Another diving pool was also constructed in 2008 in which the state government had spent nearly Rs 4 crore. She said the decision would affect her sports career as the state government has made no alternative arrangements..