New Delhi to get international-standard sports complex, includes FIFA-approved football pitch

The new cricket stadium will provide stiff competition to the Feroz Shah Kotla
The new cricket stadium will provide stiff competition to the Feroz Shah Kotla

What's the story?

The Delhi government has given a green signal to the setting up of an international level multi-game sports complex in Najafgarh. The facility will provide all the modern amenities required for various games including cricket, football, basketball, athletics, tennis and swimming.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has sanctioned the project, which is estimated to be worth around ?122 crore, and a deadline of 18 months will be provided for the completion of the same.

The football stadium, which is a part of the complex, has already been constructed and it meets the requirements set by FIFA for the hosting of international matches after an inspection conducted by the officials back in November.

In case you didn't know...

The complex will be coming up at Kair village in Najafgarh spreading over 18.20 acres and it is being developed in two phases. ?10 crore was sanctioned for initiating the first phase to avoid further delay in the execution of the same.

The heart of the matter

The cricket stadium, which is still under development, will act as a rival to the Feroz Shah Kotla with respect to hosting international cricket matches.

The complex's main objective will be to cater to the needs of sports talents who are hidden in the region of rural Delhi and Haryana. Most of the aspirants who belong to this demography, have to travel huge distances to acquire professional training and practice on a regular basis.

What's next?

The first phase consists of facilities for athletics, tennis, basketball and swimming, all of which are scheduled to be completed within six months. In the second phase, a sports academy and residential blocks will be set-up and the government has set a target of 18 months for the total completion of the project.

Author's take

This particular initiative taken up by the Delhi government is a remarkable one indeed and here's to hoping that this complex becomes a platform for the budding stars of tomorrow.

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