This is an archive article published on October 2, 2023
BMC to build Olympic-standard athletic stadium, first in Mumbai
In the proposed stadium slated to open in 2025, the civic body is eyeing to develop an eight-lane oval running track of 400 metres and 100 metres each as well as a shotput cage, discus throw cage, hammer throw cage, as well as pit for long jump, high jump and javelin throw.
BMC to build Olympic-standard athletic stadium, first in Mumbai
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In an ambitious project for Mumbai’s budding athletes, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to develop an Olympic standard stadium near Mulund’s Kalidas Natyagruh. The project, estimated to cost Rs 36 crore, will come up on a 24,682 square-metre land parcel.
In the proposed stadium slated to open in 2025, the civic body is eyeing to develop an eight-lane oval running track of 400 metres and 100 metres each as well as a shotput cage, discus throw cage, hammer throw cage, as well as pit for long jump, high jump and javelin throw.
Speaking to The Indian Express, civic officials maintained that the development of the project is being undertaken by the BMC. Kishore Gandhi, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Gardens), said, “At present, there is no such facility in Mumbai. Therefore, we are trying to develop an athletic stadium for the public. It is being developed by the BMC.”
“Since we are trying for Olympic standards, we will appoint specialised agencies to build the grounds,” said another civic official.
In its tendering phase now, work on the establishment is slated to commence in January 2024 and will be completed in 18 months. The BMC is also charting plans to develop modular grandstands with a seating capacity of 566 and once established, the arena will be open for hosting district and national level tournaments as well as to the general public for a nominal fee.
A senior official added, “While it is too early to decide about the registration and fees, we may charge a nominal fee from those who want to avail of the facility. Since we are building a synthetic track using the sandwich system, the cost of maintenance on the project will be high. Therefore, we may charge a nominal fee, as in the case of the swimming pools, to ensure the upkeep of the grounds and maintain its quality for a longer period of time.”
The project also proposes to develop a compound wall, security cabin and landscape lawns along with horticultural work. “We will also make lockers and racks for 25 players and build a gazebo for visitors,” the officer said, adding that a play area will also be made open for locals.
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“This is the first-of-its-kind pilot project for the city. Depending on the response and on the availability of large open ground, the BMC would explore the possibility of developing a similar arena in the western suburbs as well,” BMC officers told The Indian Express.
Nayonika Bose is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express’ Mumbai bureau. While in the early stages of her career, her focused reporting on local governance and community welfare already demonstrates clear Expertise and Trustworthiness in covering essential civic issues impacting Mumbai's residents.
Expertise & Authority (E-E-A-T)
Specialized Focus: Nayonika's reporting is dedicated to civic and community issues, providing readers with highly relevant, ground-level information about the functionality and administration of India's largest metropolitan area.
Core Coverage Areas: Her articles highlight a strong focus on the fundamental quality of life and public safety in Mumbai, including:
Civic Infrastructure: Reports on critical failures and initiatives related to public works, such as the recurring problem of unauthorized building collapses in Navi Mumbai, the construction of new infrastructure projects (like the Dahisar-Bhayandar Link Road and the Mahalaxmi cable-stayed bridge), and the maintenance of essential city services (e.g., manhole cover theft).
Urban Governance & Crisis Management: Provides detailed coverage of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) response to major crises, particularly during the monsoon (e.g., heavy rainfall, water cuts, and public health concerns like dengue and malaria) and large-scale public safety incidents (e.g., the hoarding collapse fallout).
Community Welfare & Rights: Reports on key social issues, including the financial aid scheme for persons with disabilities, the struggles of Mumbai's hawkers protesting eviction drives, and the dangers faced by workers due to the continuation of manual scavenging in water tanks.
Cultural & Heritage Reporting: Covers significant community stories, including the restoration of British-era fountains and the history of institutions like the 126-year-old Chinchpokli cemetery, showing a breadth of interest beyond pure administration.
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