BHUBANESWAR: The Barabati Stadium, an icon of Cuttack, is set for a massive upgrade with the redevelopment plan pegged in the range of Rs 600 crore to Rs 700 crore. It was built in 1952.
After 5T chairman VK Pandian visited the stadium Wednesday morning and held discussions with Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), secretary of the association Sanjay Behera said the development plan will be jointly implemented by the Odisha Olympic Association, OCA, Board of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) and the state government.
“Around Rs 600 crore to Rs 700 crore will be spent on the project, foundation for which will be laid by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on February 27,” Behera told The New Indian Express.
The OCA secretary said the development plan will factor in requirement for the next 50 years. A vision document has already been approved by the state government.
However, the upgrade will require the illustrious stadium to be demolished in phases. “Complete demolition of the old structure is required for its transformation to a world-class sports complex,” he added. As per the plan, the seating capacity of the stadium will be increased to 60,000 from the present 42,000.
Earlier, Pandian reviewed plans for the stadium’s transformation. To be taken up under 5T Transformation initiative of the government, the stadium area will be developed into a world-class sports campus with top facilities for cricket and other sports disciplines. Access to the stadium, parking, galleries and facilities like food courts and washrooms will be developed as part of the project.
The area adjacent to the stadium will be developed for a retail mall along with a five-star hotel and offices spaces. The area in front of the stadium will be designed as a public plaza to become Cuttack’s best open space.
Pandian also interacted with coaches and players assuring that development of cricket will be a priority under 5T initiatives. The aim will be to make Odisha a major state in cricket. He hinted at floating of a state-level cricket league later this year with broadcast facilities to improve competitiveness of Odisha’s cricket. Besides, women cricket will be a major focus area of the government.
Pandian said Odisha has women cricketers who have been displaying exceptional talent at the national level. To encourage and promote the women’s cricket, Odisha Women Cricket Academy will be started in Puri shortly, he added.