KARACHI: The Sindh Olympic Association (SOA), following instructions from the Sindh government, has postponed the 35th National Games, originally set for May 1 to 9, 2025, in Karachi. The event is now expected to take place in November or December 2025.
According to the details, teams had already started arriving in Karachi for the event, which was confirmed after recent meetings. However, the SOA, the event’s organizers, announced the delay in a letter to the teams, saying it was due to unexpected issues.
The letter, signed by SOA Secretary Ahmad Ali Rajput, explained that the decision was made due to several factors: the Meteorology Office warned of a high risk of heat stroke due to current weather conditions, posing a health risk to participants; many student athletes are currently taking important exams, and the games would disrupt their academic schedules; and parents and sports associations raised concerns about the safety and well-being of athletes in the current weather.
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The SOA emphasized that the safety and well-being of participants is their top priority and plans to hold the games under better conditions later in the year.
Ahmad Ali Rajput, also the organizing secretary, informed provincial sports bodies, military departments, and other stakeholders to pause preparations until new dates are confirmed.
Sardar Muhammad Bux Khan Mahar, chairman of the organizing committee, stated that the postponement was necessary, though further details were not provided. The National Games Secretariat in Karachi will coordinate future plans and share updates.
The delay affects many athletes and officials across the country. The SOA said sorry for the trouble and asked everyone to wait while they make new plans.
