Kohima: Wokha Town Public Ground is crumbling. As the district's only venue for sports, government events, and cultural programs, the site now suffers from severe neglect. The field is a hazard. Athletes face uneven soil, large bare patches, and thick weeds during practice.
Rain turns the pitch into a swamp. Poor drainage leaves sections waterlogged, forcing players to risk injury on the slick, muddy ground. Ephyothung, a member of Lierumba, noted that the heavy demand for the venue makes it hard to keep it in shape. He said, "preserving the ground exclusively for sports is difficult." The lack of a dedicated sports facility forces football and cricket players to share space with festival organizers and government functions.
Safety is a major concern. Ephyothung added, "the uneven kutcha surface often results in players sustaining cuts, bruises and muscle strains after falls during matches." Beyond the field itself, the gallery is choked with weeds. Trash litters the area, including discarded plastic bottles, food containers, and polythene bags jammed into drainage channels.
Local talent is suffering. Football enthusiast Chenithung Khuvung called the situation "disheartening." He argued that better facilities would boost confidence among the youth. Meanwhile, resident Imtisungkum urged the government to match the town's literacy and hospitality standards with actual infrastructure development. He noted, "Wokha is known for its warm hospitality, high literacy rate and talented youth, but infrastructure development should also keep pace with the aspirations of its people." Residents are now demanding better maintenance, waste management, and a long-term plan for a dedicated sports complex.
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