Stadium to come up at Hind Sporting Ground

The preparation for construction of a stadium on the Hind Sporting Ground has commenced with the Public Works Department issuing tender for selection of architect. The total estimated cost is Rs 32 crore. The foundation to commence the work is expected to be laid in August.

As per sources, the stadium would be constructed in two phases; the first is the complete structure of stadium. The second would be evacuation of the slum settlement around it for free flow of traffic and parking facilities.

The ground was in centre of controversy since formation of state even though national level football championship was a regular feature on the ground. It is one of the oldest football championships in the region. The then Chief Minister Ajit Jogi finally intervened in the issue where the Idgah Committee was given another land. The stadium construction could not commence.

Several times the construction was delayed for some or other reason. Once again Chief Minister announced for construction of stadium. The present corporator Akash Dubey taking the initiatives said that the stadium drawing-design is ready. The foundation stone would be laid before the election and Chief Minister Raman Singh would be the chief guest. After the stadium is constructed, the national level championship would be once again started. The stadium would have all facilities of boarding and other facilities for players.

At present it has become demonstration site, after the nearby traders and others started to encroach the ground. The ground was earlier spread over seven acres which have been encroached and now is left with only 2.5 acres. For last 5 years, the matches could not be held.

Meanwhile, on Thursday delegation of Hind Sporting Association, Raipur led by its chairman Santosh Dubey paid courtesy call to Chief Minister at his official residence. They requested for construction of a stadium. Joint Secretary of Indian Olympic Association Vikram Sisodiya was also present. Delegation includes corporator of Lakhenagar ward Akash Dubey, Dr Alok Shukla, Vinay Tiwari, Pinak Diwan, Sumit Tiwari, Amitabh Dubey, and Shashikant Sharma.