The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has stepped in to directly oversee the final phase of renovation at Kochi's Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, granting the private contractor an additional 20 days to complete the ambitious upgrade. The authority has set a new deadline of December 20 for all remaining work to be finished, aiming to transform the stadium into a world-class football venue.
From Friendly Match to Extended Deadline
The renovation project, handled by the private firm Reporter Broadcasting Corporation (RBC), was initially accelerated for a high-profile international friendly match. The Kerala state government had invited the Argentine national football team for a game scheduled for mid-November. To facilitate this, the Sports Kerala Foundation (SKF) took over the stadium from GCDA and handed it to RBC in the last week of September, with renovations slated for completion by early November.
However, after the high-profile match was cancelled and questions arose regarding the formal agreement for the stadium's transfer, the GCDA reassumed control. The authority initially directed RBC to finish all work by November 30. Following a review, this deadline has now been extended by 20 days.
GCDA Takes Charge of Monitoring
GCDA Chairman K Chandran Pillai clarified that while RBC will continue to execute the work, the authority will now directly monitor progress. "We have assessed all details of the completed works, and a meeting of the authority decided to allot additional time as the completion of works will help raise the standard of the stadium to an international level," Pillai stated.
The scope of renovation is extensive and includes:
- Restoration and construction of boundary walls.
- Complete renovation of stadium toilets and players' rooms.
- Installation of false ceilings and VIP entry works.
- Replacing existing lights with modern LED fixtures.
- Making a 750 KVA generator operational and maintaining elevators.
Substantial Progress Already Made
According to a GCDA press note, a major portion of the renovation is already complete. Significant achievements include upgrading the playing turf to international standards, replacing all chairs in the lower tier and VIP area, and completing tile work in most rooms and toilets. The stadium's interior has been freshly painted, with RBC providing a five-year defects liability warranty.
Other completed tasks involve constructing a 200-meter road on the eastern entrance, cleaning drainage lines, building 35 tree guards with seating, and finishing the parking ground in undisputed areas. Work on the main gate near the JLN Metro station and the enhanced entrance lobby is also in its final stages.
Aiming for a Premier Football Destination
Upon completion by the new December 20 deadline, the revitalized JLN Stadium is poised to become one of India's premier football facilities. Chairman Pillai expressed confidence that the upgraded venue will attract international matches to Kochi, boosting the city's sports profile.
The direct oversight by GCDA marks a pivotal shift in managing the project's conclusion, ensuring the stadium meets the high standards required for hosting global sporting events.
