MCC chalks out proposal for cricket stadium, sports complex in Mangalore

Mangalore, Oct 28: Mangalore City Corporation (MCC) has chalked a major proposal to build a cricket stadium and sports complex of international standards in Mangalore, which if accepted and implemented swiftly, will open a new chapter in the sports arena in the state.

At the moment, there are only two existing places – Mangala Stadium and Nehru Maidan for conducting major sports events in Mangalore, both of which have few limitations. The Mangala Stadium cannot accommodate events other than those associated with athletics, while there is no proper stadium or ground in the city for conducting cricket matches and tournaments.

Keeping in mind these issues along with a long-time demand of cricket lovers in the district, the MCC has sent a proposal to the state government at a time when there is a demand to promote sports and athletics in Karnataka.

Proposed stadium at Kenjar

Since there is lack of sufficient land required for the construction of a cricket stadium and sports complex in city corporation limits, the state government has been asked to reserve the required amount of land in the neighbouring region on the outskirts of city limits.

There is a minimum requirement of 30 acres of land for a cricket stadium and 80 acres for a sports complex. Since there is no availability of the entire requirement of land at one place in city limits, the MCC has proposed the construction in the outer limits where land is available.

If the Greater Mangalore proposal is implemented, then the zone presently on the outer edge of the city will be brought under the limits of the city corporation. Presently, it has been proposed to the state government to reserve the land procured for Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) at Kenjar and Thokur villages for the cricket stadium and sports complex.

According to MCC Mayor Mahabala Marla, over 500 acres of land procured for industrial use by KIADB is available on the outer limits of the city, which can be used for the construction of a full-fledged stadium and sports complex. The proposal for reservation of land has been sent to the state government and awaits approval, he said.

(Image for illustration purpose only)