In a quantum boost to hockey infrastructure at the State government-run Panposh Sports Hostel (PSH) here, a second synthetic turf is being laid.
With this, the hockey cradle of the State which has produced around 53 junior and senior international players is all set to earn the enviable distinction of owning four astro turf grounds.
Sources said Federation of International Hockey (FIH)-approved renowned global supplier Polytan has been entrusted with the work and the Inderjit Mehta Construction Pvt Ltd is executing the field construction work under the supervision of IDCO. IDCO Deputy Manager for Rourkela division JN Bandyopadhyay estimated the total project cost at over ` 4 crore, including the concrete base, adding a target has been set to complete it by March-end.
PSH in-charge coach AN Bihari said it would be of great help as 107 players now crowd the lone poly-grass field. All players from sub-junior to senior levels can practise simultaneously here.
The PSH got its first astro turf in early 1990s and it was replaced with a new one in August 2006. The other two synthetic turfs are at the Rourkela-based SAIL Hockey Academy and SAI hostel at Sundargarh.
Former Olympian and Arjuna Awardee Michael Kindo said it is a record achievement for the district which has a huge talent.
PSH resident and junior international Nomita Toppo said the added facility would be a great support for the budding talents like her.