The new year is poised to bring a significant boost for athletes in Udham Singh Nagar district, as the Manoj Sarkar Sports Stadium in Rudrapur undergoes a major transformation into a world-class sporting venue. The development of a 400-meter synthetic athletic track and a modern football turf, now in its final construction phase, is expected to be completed imminently.
Project Details and Revised Layout
This ambitious project, developed at an estimated cost of Rs 20 crore, is designed to elevate the stadium to global standards. The enhanced facilities are not limited to the track and turf; they also include an advanced drainage system and a reinforced boundary wall for improved safety. Officials revealed that the project was initially sanctioned at Rs 15 crore, but an additional Rs 5 crore was approved after modifications to the original plan.
A key change involved relocating the football turf to a nearby site instead of placing it inside the athletic track. This revision was made to prevent interference with other sporting disciplines. Officials acknowledged that this alteration, combined with the hosting of events during construction, contributed to delays. The project was originally scheduled for completion by March 2024.
Certification and Handover Process
The facilities are currently awaiting crucial certification from the World Athletics Council. Expert agencies have been conducting rigorous, continuous inspections to assess critical parameters like track quality, lane markings, surface grip, and overall safety. Assistant engineer S S Bhandari of the Irrigation Department stated that the physical construction of the synthetic track and football turf would be finished within a day or two.
"The certification process is underway, and all technical standards have been strictly adhered to," Bhandari confirmed. "Once clearance is received, the facility will be formally handed over to the sports department." The handover is now anticipated by mid-January 2024.
Impact on Sports in the Region
Once certified, the stadium's new infrastructure will unlock the potential to host national and international athletic competitions. Beyond events, it is set to become a premier training hub for local talent. District sports officer Janki Karki emphasized the project's transformative impact, stating that the stadium is set to emerge as an international sports centre.
"This development will give fresh momentum to the aspirations of young athletes in the region," Karki said. The upgrade represents a long-awaited promise to the sporting community of Udham Singh Nagar, positioning Rudrapur on the map for serious athletic training and competition.
