Baripada, March 7: The Mayurbhanj District Athletic Association has taken up renovation of the stadium here
The construction of a conference hall and a multipurpose gymnasium is under way to boost infrastructure, so that the facility can host major matches.
The stadium is being renovated with an eye to host a Ranji Trophy match by fulfilling the basic requirements. The conference hall could be used for holding training classes for players and coaches. Since the stadium does not have adequate income to meet recurring expenses and any fixed fund for maintenance, the gym and conference hall could be given on rent that would earn valuable revenue.
The level of the surface drainage system is also being raised since the turf faces get waterlogged after a bout of rain.
The state government had already sanctioned Rs 1.31 crore for the renovation. Association secretary Kishor Kumar Biswal said: "Chief minister Naveen Patnaik had laid the foundation stone for the stadium's renovation in May last. Initially, the project cost was Rs 1.31 crore. The estimate may go up by another Rs 20 lakh since some modifications are also being made. They include the construction of a concrete sewage system and a wall."
"The work on the turf has already commenced. In the next stage, a hybrid variety of grass will be planted. Pop-up sprinklers will also be installed for watering the turf. The soil conservation department is supervising the work," Biswal said.
The stadium, which is spread over eight acres in Baripada town, was rarely used except for athletics, due to severe want of adequate infrastructure and sloppy drainage system. The stadium turf was uneven and there was also no facility to accommodate the players. The infrastructure improvement include a 200-bed dormitory and toilets for players.
The district athletic association was formed in 1918 by the then maharaja, when Mayurbhanj was a princely state. The district collector is the president of the association.
The expenses for the outfield work of the stadium are taken care with assistance from the sports department, MLA local area development fund and the backward region grant fund.
