Darjeeling: Foundation stone for football stadium with FIFA standard turf laid, say officials

“This infrastructure will not only uplift the sports ecosystem but also provide a platform for our talented sportsmen to shine on the national and international stage, inspiring future generations to pursue their passion for sports,” he said.

As per GTA officials, the ambitious project, with an allocated budget of Rs 3.2 crore, will transform the existing sand field into a state-of-the-art football turf.

“Additionally, the stadium will see the construction of a reinforced concrete (RCC) gallery, boundary fencing, and a security wall, significantly enhancing the spectator experience and overall security,” said an official. The upgrade has ignited immense excitement among local athletes and sports enthusiasts, who have long advocated for improved sports infrastructure.

“For the last 5 years, we have been wanting the government to do this. Seeing such turf in our neighboring state, Sikkim, often stirred feelings of envy. We just hope that it is turned into reality in a concrete way,” said athlete Vikram Rai, who is also a research scholar and professor of St Joseph’s College, Darjeeling.

“Heartfelt thanks to Anit Thapa Daju, Bhupendra Bomzon (Noble Bomzon) Member-in-Charge of Sports and local sabhasad Yogendra Pradhan, our super energetic secretary Sonam Bhutia and the GTA for taking this visionary step towards progress and for believing in the potential of our hills,” he said on social media.

Officials confirmed that the Rs 3.2 crore budget also covers the upgrade of the gallery itself. The project is expected to elevate the quality of football played in the region and provide better facilities for local players.