Speaking to presspersons after inspecting the work on outdoor stadium and indoor stadium at Man’s Compound on Monday, he said government will spend Rs 4 to 5 lakh towards the maintenance of synthetic turf maidan every year.

Owing to the protest from various quarters for laying synthetic turf in a private land, the government has decided to lay synthetic turf in government college maidan.

To a query whether Rs 2 crore was enough to lay synthetic turf, he said “synthetic turf was laid in Akkithimmanahalli in Bangalore. In the same way, it can be laid in Ponnampet as well.”

Swimming pool

Minister assured to renovate the swimming pool which has been in neglected state for the last several years in Man’s Compound. “More funds are needed to lay a new swimming pool.  An estimate of Rs 98 lakh has already been submitted to the government.” He said and directed the Land Army Corporation official to submit a proposal.  Swimming pools are being laid at an estimated cost of Rs 1.47 lakh in Hassan, Hosadurga.

“There is a need to put a sheet above the swimming pool and Madikeri officials should discuss it over with Hassan and Hosadurga officials.  Measures will be taken to release the fund soon after the submission of the proposal,” he assured.

A sum of Rs one crore has been spent on the construction of indoor stadium. The remaining Rs 98 lakh will be released soon. He directed Land Army Corporation Assistant Director to complete the work of roof by monsoon.  Inspecting the outdoor stadium being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 1.25 crore. Minister also directed Land Army Corporation to submit a proposal for the construction of a retaining wall to avoid the seepage of water during rainy season.

Department of Sports and Youth Service Assistant Director Gayathri, Land Army Corporation Assistant Director Panduranga and others were present.

Rs 10 lakh for Maneyapanda hockey

“The Government will release Rs 10 lakh towards Maneyapanda twenty-10 hockey tournament which concluded at Ponnampet on Sunday.”

Minister for Sports and Youth Service Goolihatti Shekhar said “Assembly Speaker had requested to release Rs 5 lakh towards the hockey tournament. However, the department will release Rs 10 lakh.”