Chamarajanagar's Olympic-Size Swimming Pool Project Revived After 10 Years
The town of Chamarajanagar is set to receive a major sports infrastructure upgrade with the construction of an Olympic-size swimming pool at Dr BR Ambedkar Stadium. The Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES) has floated a tender for the project, which has been allocated Rs 6 crore by the Karnataka state government.
Long-Awaited Project Finally Gets Green Light
This project was originally announced in the 2025 state budget, bringing significant relief to swimming enthusiasts and professional athletes in the region. Interestingly, the government had initiated construction of a swimming pool near the basketball court at the same stadium a decade ago, but the project was shelved due to funding shortages and delays in announcing such a facility at the district headquarters.
Now, with all necessary funds sanctioned, the international-level swimming pool measuring 21 meters by 51 meters will finally become a reality. The facility is designed to accommodate professional swimmers preparing for national and international competitions, including children's categories.
Community Reaction and Additional Improvements
Mahesh, a swimming enthusiast from Uppara Street, expressed enthusiasm about the development. "The construction of this international-level swimming pool will give a major boost to professional swimmers in our town," he said. However, he also appealed for improvements to other stadium facilities, noting that the synthetic track is poorly maintained and rainwater drainage systems need attention.
"Even though the stadium was constructed two decades ago, several works remain incomplete at this district headquarters facility," Mahesh added, highlighting the need for comprehensive infrastructure upgrades.
Official Timeline and Future Plans
Suresh, Assistant Director of DYES, confirmed the project details in an interview. "The department has floated a tender for construction of the Olympic-size swimming pool after the government sanctioned Rs 6 crore," he stated. The tender process is expected to be finalized by February 10, with construction work commencing shortly thereafter.
In addition to the swimming pool, Suresh revealed that plans are underway for another basketball court and a gymnasium at the stadium complex, indicating broader sports infrastructure development in Chamarajanagar.
The revival of this long-stalled project represents a significant commitment to sports development in the region, potentially transforming Chamarajanagar into a hub for aquatic sports training and competition in Karnataka.
