Cuttack: In a significant development for sports enthusiasts in Odisha, the Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha, Kartik Pandian, visited Barabati Stadium in Cuttack to discuss cricket development plans with Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) President Pranab Prakash Das and other officials. The visit, directed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, focused on transforming the Barabati cricket stadium into a world-class sports campus with a seating capacity of 60,000.
The ambitious project is part of the 5T transformation initiative of the State Government, aiming to elevate Barabati Stadium to international standards. The comprehensive plan includes enhancing spectator experiences, from improved access to the stadium, roads, and parking to upgraded galleries, comfortable match viewing, and additional amenities like food courts and washrooms.
The proposed sports campus will not only cater to cricket but also provide facilities for various sports disciplines. The area surrounding Barabati Stadium will witness comprehensive development, featuring a retail mall, a 5-star hotel, office spaces, and a public plaza. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of creating open public spaces for the citizens of Cuttack city.
During the visit, Kartik Pandian interacted with coaches and players, emphasizing that cricket development is a priority under the 5T transformation. The plan includes establishing cricket training centers with high-quality coaching across the state to position Odisha as a major emerging state in cricket.
To boost the competitiveness of Odisha cricket players, Kartik Pandian proposed initiating a high-standard State-level cricket league with proper broadcast facilities this year. This league will serve as a platform for budding cricketers to showcase their talent and enhance their skills.
Highlighting the focus on women’s cricket, Kartik Pandian announced the establishment of the Odisha Women Cricket Academy in Puri. Additionally, the Odisha Cricket Academy in Cuttack will undergo upgrades to provide top-notch coaching facilities for cricketers across all age groups.
The discussions at Barabati Stadium involved key officials, including Vineel Krishna (Secretary Sports), Sanjay Behera (Secretary OCA), Shri Anil Samal (Chairman CDA), Vineet Bharadwaj (Collector Cuttack), and other senior officials. The transformation of Barabati Stadium is poised to redefine sports infrastructure in Odisha, fostering a culture of excellence and development.