Lucknow Development Authority Announces Major Sports Infrastructure Project in Gomtinagar
The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a state-of-the-art mini sports arena in the heart of Gomtinagar, marking a significant investment in the city's recreational infrastructure. This initiative is specifically designed to foster outdoor physical activities and provide easily accessible sports facilities for the local community.
Project Details and Financial Framework
According to LDA Assistant Engineer Rahul Verma, the project carries an estimated budget of approximately Rs 8 crore, which will be sourced directly from the LDA's establishment funds. The development will occupy a strategically located section of the existing green belt near the Sahara area, leveraging its prime position for maximum public benefit.
The overall green belt area is being master-planned with multiple thematic zones. One segment is earmarked for a beautifully designed lotus-themed park, while the adjacent portion, which enjoys direct connectivity to Shaheed Path, will be transformed into a comprehensive mini sports stadium or sports hub. This sports facility will be executed under the innovative Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring efficient management and sustainability.
Comprehensive Sports and Recreational Amenities
The proposed sports arena is expansive, covering an area of about 20,000 square metres, equivalent to nearly 5 acres. It is set to become a one-stop destination for sports enthusiasts, featuring a diverse array of facilities:
- A full-sized football ground for team sports and matches.
- Dedicated courts for popular games including pickleball, volleyball, basketball, badminton, and tennis.
- Open, designated spaces for yoga and meditation to promote wellness.
- A small, serene green park area for relaxation and family outings.
- An open-air skating rink to cater to skating enthusiasts of all ages.
- A basic food and beverage area, primarily intended to serve players and visitors using the complex.
Strategic Design and Visitor Convenience
Given the site's excellent connectivity within the city, the project includes plans for adequate parking space to accommodate visitors. Officials noted that the land parcel is long and relatively narrow in shape. To optimize this layout, all sports and recreational facilities will be intelligently arranged in segmented zones along the stretch.
To ensure utmost convenience for visitors, the design incorporates multiple toilet blocks and other essential amenities. These will be strategically placed at intervals of approximately 150 to 200 metres throughout the arena, making them easily accessible from any point within the facility.
Project Timeline and Inspirational Model
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this ambitious venture is currently in its final stages of preparation. Authorities have confirmed that the DPR is expected to be officially released to the public as early as next week, providing complete transparency on the project's scope and specifications.
LDA officials revealed that the project draws inspiration from the successful facilities developed at Janeshwar Mishra Park. However, the Gomtinagar arena will feature significant adjustments in its layout and overall capacity. These modifications are specifically intended to serve a much larger population base, with a focused benefit for residents of Gomtinagar and Gomtinagar Extension.
This development represents a proactive step by the LDA to enhance the quality of urban life in Lucknow, promoting health, fitness, and community engagement through accessible, high-quality sports infrastructure.