Odisha CM Launches Sports Projects Worth Rs. 120 Crores to Boost Sports Development in Sambalpur

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated a series of sports projects valued at over Rs. 120 crores today, aimed at fostering sports development in Sambalpur. Launched through a video conference, these initiatives, including the Burla indoor stadium, Sambalpur Football Academy, and the Sambalpur University sports complex featuring a Hockey Stadium, align with the Chief Minister’s vision of “Sports for youth, youth for the future” under the 5T initiative.

Expressing his admiration for the sports culture in Sambalpur, Chief Minister Patnaik emphasized the significance of these facilities in further enhancing sports development in the district. The establishment of the Sambalpur Football Academy was particularly highlighted, given the popularity of football in the region. The academy aims to provide top-quality coaching and competition facilities to nurture local football talent.

Key Highlights:

Burla Indoor Stadium:

Features four badminton courts and a seating capacity for over 400 spectators.
Centralized AC facility with players’ changing rooms, a gym, and multipurpose halls for indoor games.
Equipped with wooden synthetic flooring and BWF recommended sports lighting system.
Built at a cost of Rs. 32 crore, with funding from MCL (Rs. 10.35 crore) and the Government of India (Rs. 7.5 crore).
Sambalpur University Sports Complex:

Hockey Stadium with FIH certified synthetic hockey turf, sports lighting system, and a gallery for 3000 spectators.
Multipurpose indoor stadium with BWF standard badminton courts and facilities for various indoor sports.
Equipped to host regional level competitions.
Government of Odisha investing Rs. 70 crore in this project.
Sambalpur Football Academy:

Features a FIFA-sized natural turf with floodlight system.
Facility building with a gallery for 1000 spectators.
Includes players’ changing rooms, a multipurpose hall, and spectator amenities.
Government of Odisha investing Rs. 17 crore in this project.
Chief Minister Patnaik expressed optimism that these initiatives will not only enhance sports infrastructure but also encourage the youth of Sambalpur to actively participate in sports, aligning with the state’s commitment to fostering a sporting culture.