AFTER remaining closed for over six years since the COVID19 pandemic, the historic Kamgar Kalyan Swimming Pool in Raghuji Nagar is set to reopen its gates on August 16, 2026. A reopening ceremony will be held on Independence Day, August 15. The pool, which had fallen into disuse and disrepair, has undergone extensive renovation. A thick layer of filth had accumulated at the bottom, the filtration system had collapsed and several civil works were required. “The renovation work included re-tiling of the pool, complete overhaul of changing rooms, new plumbing in shower areas, construction of new office rooms and laying of fresh paver blocks in the outer perimeter. A brand new filtration system along with new chlorine cylinders has been installed to ensure continuous water treatment,” said Shrikant Dhotre, Assistant Labour Welfare Officer at Kamgar Kalyan Kendra, while talking to ‘The Hitavada’, asserting that modern facilities have been added to bring the pool up to certain standard. City’s noted NIS swimming coach who has trained many swimmers at the pool and resides nearby confirmed the developments. “The pool was in a shabby condition after being unused for so many years.

 

There was a big layer of filth accumulated at the bottom of the pool. The filtration system also collapsed prompting immediate repairs and replacements. After a lot of work, the pool looks good now and one hopes that it will become functional at the scheduled date,” said Batwe. Nagpur South MLA Mohan Mate will be the chief guest for the reopening ceremony on August 15. Post reopening, the pool will conduct training in two batches — 6 am to 10 am and from 5 pm to 8 pm. Coaching will be offered for beginners, amateurs and competitive swimmers. Special batches for children will be held in the evening. The facility will be supervised by three swimming coaches and one lifeguard at all times. Fees will remain nominal for beneficiaries under the Labour Welfare Fund. The Kamgar Kalyan pool holds a special place in Nagpur’s swimming history, having produced several noted athletes. Long-distance para-swimmer Ishwari Pande, Rutuja Talegaonkar and Himani Fadke are among those who began their journeys here. “The major difference between the swimmers at Kamgar Kalyan pool and other pools I found is that swimmers here are not choosy and are willing to push their absolute limits when training,” Batwe said recalling the pool’s unique training culture where no competitive swimmer ever refused for going an extra yard.