SPORTS Minister Sunil Kedar has directed the State Sports Department to expedite the upgradation work of Divisional Sports Complex in Mankapur and has set a deadline of December 2023 to complete the project. During a review meeting held at Divisional Sports Complex on Saturday, Kedar also directed the officials to prepare a detailed proposal immediately and begin the construction work. The Minister also proposed to construct a Sports Club House on the 21-acre premises. Taking cognisance of the fact that there is no proper washrooms for sportspersons, Kedar ordered to construct the same that would be equivalent to those available at five star hotels. Deputy Director of Sports Nagpur Division Shekhar Patil informed that on the land of Divisional Sports Complex, a commercial complex, an open football stadium and a hockey field on the first floor will be constructed. Similarly, there will be two hostel buildings for sportspersons.

 

Patil also proposed to lease out the land for 30 years to the contractor who would construct the shopping complex. This would expedite the construction work and after 30 years, the land will be back in Sports Complex’s possession. To this, Minister Kedar said the Sports Ministry would think about the proposal and then only take any decision. To popularise squash in city, Kedar asked the officials to prepare a proposal on how to attract Nagpurians towards the racquet sport. Kedar also informed that Nagpur will be hosting an aero modelling show at Divisional Sports Complex. During the show, horse riding and cultural events will also take place. “For aero modelling show, 29 aero models and for horse riding 20 horse-riders will be in the city. Around 1200 sportspersons from India and abroad will participate in the events. Arrangement for around 5000 students will made at the complex. For the smooth conduct, help of NCC cadets and Scout and Guide students will be taken,” added Kedar. The meeting was also attended by District Sports Officer Avinash Pund, Architect Bhise and NCC officials.