The management of Ambala Cantonment's first government all-weather 10-lane Olympic standard swimming pool is facing significant challenges due to a lack of sufficient staff.

Opened in June 2022 by former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, this pool, built to FINA (Fédération Internationale de Natation) standards, has become a vital resource for both aspiring and professional swimmers. However, since April, its operational hours have been reduced, and beginners are completely barred from using the facility.

The contract for operating the pool is set to expire in March 2025. Although preparations for a new tender were initiated well in advance, procedural delays have stalled the hiring of a new management firm.

The decision to restrict access for beginners has disappointed many local families eager to enroll their children in swimming classes during the summer break. Currently, only experienced swimmers, including state and national medalists, academy-selected children, and guest swimmers who pay per visit, are permitted to use the pool.

A Sports Department official noted that while efforts are being made to maintain pool operations, the shortage of staff and lifeguards complicates matters.

Previously, the pool operated for nearly ten hours daily, but now it is limited to just five hours due to these constraints. A tender was issued at the headquarters level, but the firms did not meet the necessary conditions, prompting plans for a new tender to be released soon. Attempts to recruit temporary staff locally have also been unsuccessful in attracting qualified trainers. To operate at full capacity, at least four lifeguards/coaches, one plant operator, and one electrician are needed. Additionally, repairs are required for major equipment, including the air conditioning, CCTVs, and the ozonator. A technogym for swimmers is also necessary, although directions for its installation were given by former Sports Minister Sandeep Singh, it remains uninstalled.

The lack of adequate training has led to a noticeable decline in swimmer performance. Furthermore, no beginners have been enrolled in swimming classes for over five months, despite numerous inquiries from residents. This situation not only affects the swimmers but could also negatively impact government revenue.

Concerns regarding the tendering delays have been voiced by Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij and State Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam, who have issued directives to address the issue.

Senior Swimming Coach Ram Sharma stated that the district sports office is overseeing the pool's management and is striving to ensure that swimmer training remains uninterrupted. Upcoming events like the Khel Mahakumbh and other state-level championships are scheduled to take place here, and there is confidence that Ambala's swimmers will excel.

District Sports Officer Rajbir Ranga mentioned that while efforts to resume full operations are ongoing, the pool is currently functioning with limited hours due to staffing shortages. A tender was opened at the headquarters level but faced technical issues that prevented its allocation. The situation is still pending updates from headquarters, and attempts to hire temporary staff locally for three months have yielded minimal interest. The hiring process is currently in progress.