Another major upgradation that Kanpurites can look forward to as far as sports facilities are concerned is the construction of a multipurpose outdoor stadium at the Palika stadium. The Kanpur Municipal Corporation (KMC) had already sanctioned the renovation plan for the existing Palika Stadium. The foundation for the same was laid on March 12 by Mayor Pramila Pandey who performed the ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ ceremony.
As per the renovation plan, the cricket stadium will feature a 120-metre radius with a three pitch center square. Four level-1 floodlights will also be installed so that day-night matches can take place. All upgradations will be as per the standards set by Sports Authority of India and the directorate of sports.
Post renovation, the National Institute of Sports (NIS) coaches will be appointed to take care of sports activities and provide training to young athletes. Children with an economically weak background will be given free training in various sports as a part of the Sports Hub Policy.
The stadium was recently visited by noted sports dignitaries and members of UP Veteran Cricket Association including Shashikant Khandekar, Rahul Sapru, Girish Kapoor, IM Rohatgi, Ashu Mehtrotra and Saurabh Dev and they expressed their satisfaction with the developments of the project and technical specifications.
This renovation aims to make Kanpur the hub for state and national level events, making it possible for local players to get exposure to higher levels of the competition.