Cuttack: In a strategic partnership between the State Government and the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), plans for a comprehensive overhaul of the iconic Barabati Stadium have been unveiled, aiming to transform it into a world-class facility with an estimated investment ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 700 crore.
Following the meeting, OCA Vice-President Pankaj Lochan Mohanty addressed the media, stating, “It was decided during the meeting to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for the complete development of the Barabati Stadium with an investment of about Rs 600 to Rs 700 crore.”
Mohanty outlined the funding strategy, noting, “We can secure more than Rs 150 crore from the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) Infrastructure Development Fund, while the State Government, with active support from corporate entities through their CSR funds, can secure the remaining funds required for the mega project.”
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is slated for completion by January 2024. However, the association will make a final decision on whether to completely or partially demolish the stadium. In the interim, the revitalization process for three galleries of the Stadium has already commenced.
In a commitment to nurturing grassroots-level players, the OCA plans to organize various competitions, including inter-school and inter-district schools, at regular intervals.