Delhi govt nod to Rs 122-crore sports complex in Najafgarh

“FIFA has already approved the completed football stadium in this upcoming complex as a certified venue for hosting international matches, during its inspection of the stadium in November,” an official said.

Spread over 18.2 acres, the Delhi government claimed that after the football stadium, a cricket stadium would also be constructed at the site. “In the first phase, international-level facilities for athletics, tennis, basketball and swimming are scheduled to be completed within six months. In the second phase, a sports academy and residential facilities will be set-up. The target of completing the entire complex is within 18 months,” the official added.

The moves comes on the heels of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announcing that a sports policy is being created on three rungs — looking to aid athletes who’ve won national and international level competitions, aid talented students, and finally ensure that “sports becomes a part of Delhi’s culture”.

An official said, “The government is looking to build sports and sporting infrastructure in rural areas of Delhi. This also ensures a source of employment for people living in these areas.”