Yesterday, this paper reported about an Under-14 football tourney being played at the Azad Maidan and the lack of basic medical facilities on site. A 13-year-old student who was participating in the event fractured his left leg during play. The boy cracked the shinbone (tibia) of his left leg while getting tackled. He did not get immediate first aid and was finally taken to hospital on a scooter by his coach and a schoolteacher.

While ground authorities and organisers pass the buck, it is vital that all first aid measures and basic facilities like changing rooms, showers and toilets are in good condition at playgrounds and maidans in the city. Shower facilities are pathetic and there are no decent changing rooms or toilets for the players, which poses a major problem, especially for girls.