ISLAMABAD:
Youth and families are increasingly turning to sports in the capital this Ramazan season, taking advantage of upgraded playgrounds across parks and grounds to counter screen addiction, inactivity, and health issues associated with fasting routines.
Government improvements, fitness apps, and community tournaments are all playing a role in encouraging outdoor activity.
“More than 20 public grounds have been upgraded this year with improved turf and lighting,” said government sports official Imran Malik to APP.
Islamabad’s younger generation, often engrossed in mobile screens, is now making use of outdoor sports facilities revitalised over the past year, aided by social media trends and local initiatives. Facilities ranging from F-9 Park to G-10 grounds, and Bhara Kahu tracks to Margalla Hills hiking trails, are seeing steady crowds for jogging, running, and games such as football, cricket, and basketball — particularly after Maghrib prayers. The trend has also been bolstered by school, college, and university programmes, as well as popular social media fitness challenges.
Parents are noticing the difference. “My son used to spend hours on video games, but now he plays football here and shares his progress online,” said Ayesha Khan at F-9 Park, watching her child practise.
A 19-year-old footballer at the G-13 Markaz ground remarked, “My college physical education teacher motivated me, and these improved fields make it easier to stay active, especially during Ramazan.”
Women and girls in Islamabad are also embracing the revamped playgrounds for evening cricket, badminton, and jogging after Maghrib prayers.
Mothers and daughters, dressed comfortably, engage in scrimmages under bright lights, inspired by local fitness influencers. “These spaces let us stay fit without worry,” said 35-year-old Fatima Raza from I-8, practising basketball nearby.
Ramazan events are attracting around 500 participants daily. A local Imam, Maulana Usman from Jamia Masjid in G-9, commented, “These spaces help build community spirit after night prayers and provide healthy alternatives to staying indoors.”
Health experts support the trend. “Combining fasting with physical activity helps manage weight and stress; in similar groups, we have seen a potential 20 per cent reduction in conditions such as diabetes,” said Dr Faisal Rehman, sports medicine specialist at Polyclinic Hospital.
