COIMBATORE: The much-awaited international hockey stadium at RS Puram in Coimbatore is now inching closer to inauguration, with Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) awaiting final certification from the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The civic body recently completed the first phase of construction and hosted FIH officials for an inspection of the newly laid synthetic turf and other infrastructure.
Spread across a 7.02-acre site on the premises of the Corporation Higher Secondary School, the stadium has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 9.67 crore. The project, launched with high expectations earlier this year, saw its foundation stone laid by Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on April 27. Since then, the corporation has pursued work on a fast track to ensure that the facility meets global standards.
Designed to align with international standards, the stadium features a 6,500 sq. metre FIH-certified synthetic turf. The first phase also includes a 147 sq. metre dressing room, six 17m-high mast lights to illuminate the field, and a pop-up rain sprinkler system comprising six units to maintain the turf. Beneath the turf lies a crucial shock-absorber layer that enhances player safety by absorbing impact and reducing stress on joints.
While structural and field works are complete, the stadium is awaiting asphalt base approval and final certification from FIH. During their recent visit, federation officials inspected the field and associated systems. CCMC Commissioner M Sivaguru Prabakaran said that officials expressed strong appreciation for the facility, noting that the quality of the stadium surpasses the stadium in Madurai. "Once we receive official certification from FIH, we shall notify the government, and the facility will be inaugurated soon," he told TNIE.
The CCMC has also prepared a detailed project report (DPR) for the second phase of development, estimated at Rs 15 crore. This phase will focus on amenities for spectators and athletes, including a gallery with a seating capacity for 1,630 people, a VVIP entry and balcony, administration blocks, shower and gym facilities for players, dressing rooms, and a dedicated parking space for 110 cars and 200 two-wheelers.