PMC proposes monthly pass fee for solo players at Baburao Sanas ground in Pune

Players who practise alone at Pune's Late Baburao Sanas ground may soon have to pay for it. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has proposed a pass system under which players below 18 would pay Rs 300 a month and those above 18 would pay Rs 600. At present, individual players use the ground free of charge.

The administration has drawn up a detailed policy covering entry to the ground, use of the synthetic track and rules of conduct for players and coaches. The proposal has been sent through the sports committee to the PMC standing committee and the general body. It will come into force only if the general body approves it.

Under the proposed rules, players can practise from 6 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 7 pm. The slot from 9 am to 4 pm will be kept for competitions.

From Monday to Saturday, the ground can be given separately for athletics competitions alone, but this will require prior permission from the PMC. Organisers will have to apply to the corporation's sports department. Daily practice will not be allowed while a competition is on.

The ground will be closed every Sunday for maintenance. No competitions will be held on that day either.

Rules have also been laid down for those using the track. Players must wear proper sports shoes on the synthetic track and the ground. Slippers and everyday footwear will not be allowed. Carrying or consuming food on the track or the ground is strictly prohibited. Parents of trainees and other citizens will not be allowed on the track or the ground under any circumstances. The facility will not be open even for walking. Individual players and coaches will have to obtain identity cards from the sports department and show them to staff or security personnel at the gate.

The policy also says players and coaches will be responsible for any injury or accident during practice. The administration will not be liable.

Whether the fee and the new rules come into effect now depends on the general body's decision.