Will have 6 courts, parking facilities
MANDI: In a significant development for Mandi city, local MLA Anil Sharma has announced plans for a state-of-the-art indoor stadium in Paddal. The proposed facility will feature six sports courts, including those for volleyball, basketball, handball and badminton.
Additionally, the stadium will include parking amenities to accommodate visitors.
Interestingly, the indoor stadium issue had made headlines after the MLA had proposed to have it built at Paddal Ground, something that was opposed by local residents.
Site inspection by Sports Authority of India team
A team from the Sports Authority of India’s (SAI) architectural division visited the site on Saturday following the allocation of land to the sports department. During their visit, Sharma conducted an on-site inspection and engaged in discussions with the team to finalise the stadium’s design and layout.
The new indoor stadium is set to provide children and youth in Mandi with year-round opportunities to engage in sports. Anil Sharma emphasised that the facility will be accessible during festivals, as discussions with the Devta Committee have ensured that the stadium will remain open for deities during these events.
Proposal to be sent to central govt
The proposal for the indoor stadium will be forwarded to the central government by the state cabinet, with work expected to commence soon. Sharma also highlighted ongoing projects, including the development of a large sports field in Kotli and plans for a major sports complex in Raghunath, Padhar.
In addition to the stadium project, the MLA noted that efforts to enhance the city’s infrastructure are ongoing. The Himachal Pradesh government has allocated Rs 18 crore for the Shivdham project in Kangni Dhar, Mandi. Furthermore, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh has pledged an additional Rs 125 crore for this initiative.
The announcement was made in the presence of several local dignitaries, including Mayor Virender Bhatt and Executive Engineer DK Verma from PWD Mandi Division-2.
