Works on indoor stadium limp

Project was supposed to be completed by March 2011

The dream of the sportspersons and teams of the district to have an ultra-modern indoor stadium in the city may take some more time to materialise as the works pertaining to it is progressing at a snail’s pace.

The construction of an indoor stadium behind the Kalamandira in Mandya city had begun in the year 2010 and was supposed to be completed by March 2011.

But even after March 2012, only 60 per cent of works are complete. The indoor stadium under construction is of three floors comprising weight and power lifting arena, three badminton, three volleyball and one basketball courts.

The construction of the stadium at an estimated cost of Rs 1.90 crore was approved by the department of youth services, and the works were handed over to the Public Works Department.

Later, it was handed over to Nirmiti Kendra, which prepared a project plan at an estimate of Rs 2.35 crore. But, as the department of Sports did not approve this, district sports committee president decided to complete the project with the funds from local organisations.

The officials claim that the project was handed over to Nirmiti Kendra as the PWD was delaying the works. When the issue was brought before the officials concerned they cite various reasons.

The government has already released Rs 1.25 crore funds till now, but the works have not been completed at the expected speed. As Nirmiti Kendra is also an agency of the government, the officials cite helplessness over the delay.

Those participating in badminton and body building events are still dependent on the private stadiums.