National Games Postponed in Karachi Due to Heat and Exams

The highly anticipated National Games, initially set to begin on May 1 in Karachi, have been deferred again. Authorities have indicated that the primary reasons for this postponement are the intense heat and ongoing intermediate examinations.

Sources indicate that the decision to postpone was prompted by the forecasted heatwave coinciding with the examination period, presenting significant challenges to proceeding with the games as planned.

The Sindh Olympic Association released an official statement, informing all relevant departments about the postponement due to “unavoidable circumstances.” The games were scheduled to commence in just 13 days, marking Sindh’s first time hosting the prestigious event in 18 years.

However, sources have raised concerns about why the heatwave in May and the exam schedule were not addressed sooner, considering that both were known well in advance.

Sources further stated that preparations for the event were significantly incomplete and most grounds and sporting facilities had not undergone the necessary improvements.

They also claimed that the official logo for the National Games was not yet complete, and the traditional torch relay had not commenced.

The National Games were previously planned for February but were rescheduled to May due to earlier delays. The event is now postponed indefinitely, and new dates will be announced in the future.

The National Games of Pakistan represent the country’s paramount multi-sport event, organized by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), and the host province.

These games are of great importance as they unite athletes from across Pakistan to compete in a variety of sports.

The Pakistan Army holds the record as the most successful group in the Games’ history, having won 28 of the 34 official editions held.

Lahore has hosted the event 10 times, making it the city that has hosted it most frequently. Karachi, Islamabad, and Peshawar are some of the other major cities that have also been hosts in the past.