Cricket fans in Ghaziabad have reason to rejoice! The wait for an international cricket stadium in the city is finally nearing its end. Officials from the Ghaziabad Cricket Association (GCA) have announced that the foundation stone laying ceremony for the project will take place on March 10th.
Ghaziabad Cricket Stadium Gains Momentum
Discussions for the construction of the stadium began in 2018, but hurdles related to Floor Area Ratio (FAR) requirements by the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) from the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) delayed progress.
Rajiv Shukla and Gen VK Singh to Grace the Ceremony
GCA president Rakesh Mishra confirmed the upcoming ceremony, stating that it will be graced by Rajiv Shukla, the BCCI’s vice-president, and Ghaziabad MP Gen VK Singh (retired). Rakesh Mishra, who also serves as the UPCA’s stadium convener, remained tight-lipped on whether the previous FAR issues had been fully resolved as per Hindustan Times.
Ghaziabad International Cricket Stadium
The estimated cost of the new stadium is ₹450 crore. Rakesh Mishra revealed that approximately ₹70 crore has already been spent on land acquisition. The stadium will boast international-standard facilities and a seating capacity of 55,000 spectators, making it a grand addition to Ghaziabad’s sporting landscape.
Project Completion Expected by 2026
Rakesh Mishra is optimistic about the project timeline, targeting completion by 2026. While GDA officials remained unavailable for comment, Mishra confirmed that construction will move forward with an initial FAR of 1-1.2, sufficient for the stadium’s core structure and a sports academy.
Boon for Ghaziabad and Cricket Enthusiasts
The proposed stadium in Morti near Raj Nagar Extension will sprawl across 32 acres and is set to become a landmark for Ghaziabad. With construction gaining momentum, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing international matches and fostering the sport in the city.