Shillong, Mar 5: The fears of Ri-Bhoi’s football fans that they had been forgotten by the state government when it comes to big sports infrastructure projects were alleviated today as Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma revealed the foundation stone for a project to install an artificial turf for football.
Numerous other similar projects have been launched and even inaugurated in other parts of the state but Ri-Bhoi had, until now, missed out, leading many to wonder if the government was purposely ignoring the district.
This new turf is to be installed at Umbuda football ground near Nongpoh.
“The Sports Department is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, marking a significant milestone in the history of our state,” Sangma said. “Presently, we have projects worth Rs 700 crore underway, with an additional Rs 200 crore already sanctioned and another Rs 200 crore slated for approval in the near future. Under the MDA (Meghalaya Democratic Alliance) government’s tenure, we anticipate an investment exceeding Rs 1,000 crore in the sports sector alone.”
These projects include the “state’s largest stadium” at Mawkhanu in New Shillong, which is to be built at over Rs 350 crore.
The artificial turf at Umbuda is estimated to cost Rs 10.93 crore, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Shakliar Warjri said in his speech. The CM also said that Rs 13.88 crore has been allocated for a track and field stadium in Ri-Bhoi.
(DIPR photo)