Prepare cost estimates for upgrading sports facility in Dharwad, officials told

Principal Secretary to the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports Naveen Raj Singh inspected sports infrastructure in Dharwad district on Sunday and directed officials to prepare cost estimates for upgrading existing facilities.

During his visit, Mr. Singh inspected the newly constructed international-standard swimming pool and indoor stadium in Dharwad. He reviewed the project report and blueprints with the agency that executed the works and suggested certain modifications.

At the District Stadium, he inspected the ageing indoor facility and directed officials to prepare and submit estimates for the proposed improvements. Assistant Director of the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports Sadanand H.

Amarapur sought additional funds to construct a wrestling facility and a gymnasium. He also sought funds to rebuild the spectator gallery and synthetic athletics track in the District Stadium, both of which are in poor condition.

Mr. Amarapur also requested the transfer of 1 acre and 32 gunta vacant plot in Sai Nagar at Unkal, Hubballi, to the department for sports activities. Mr. Singh also inspected the multi-purpose stadium at Lohia Nagar in Hubballi, built at an estimated cost of ₹175 crore under the Khelo India and Smart City projects.

The facility is designed to accommodate 22 sports at the international level. He held discussions with Hubballi-Dharwad West MLA Arvind Bellad on the inauguration of the stadium and the award of contract for its maintenance.

Deputy Commissioner Snehal R., Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation Commissioner Rudresh S. Ghali, Assistant Engineer Basavaraj and department officials were present during the visit.