Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik announced that the country’s biggest hockey stadium is to be constructed at a capacity of 20,000 in Rourkela. It is completed by 2023 and will host matches of FIH men’s World Cup.
“As a tribute to the contribution of Sundargarh to Indian hockey, I would like to announce that we will build a new international level stadium in Rourkela with a seating capacity of 20,000. The stadium will have all the modern amenities and will offer a unique experience. I hope it will emerge as the best venue for field hockey in the World,” the CM said.
He further said Sundargarh district is a powerhouse of hockey talent and many great hockey players from the district have represented the country at the international level. “The Indian team led by players like Dilip Tirkey and Sunita Lakra have brought laurels for the country. The popularity of hockey can be seen across the district. The support of people of the district to hockey players is unparalleled anywhere in the world,” said Patnaik.
Recently, a high-level team including senior officials from the state government, International Federation of Hockey (FIH), Department of Sports and Youth Services and Hockey India had visited Rourkela. They reviewed the infrastructure and allied facilities in the city to host the prestigious event.