Ludhiana, Aug. 24 -- The weightlifting centre near Rakh Bagh, built in 1987, is waiting for a much-needed renovation, with the District Weightlifting Association's repeated requests to the district administration yet to yield results. The deteriorating building has poor flooring and damaged walls.

Once a vibrant training hub, the centre has produced several promising weightlifters who represented Punjab and the country at the state, national and international levels. However, athletes now face difficulties while training.

The centre is managed by the District Weightlifting Association, which charges trainees Rs.500 for six months. Association officials said the nominal fee barely covers routine expenses, leaving little scope for underta...