Chennai: TVK govt will overhaul previous DMK govt’s mini-stadium project for all 234 Assembly constituencies, raising the likely cost of each facility from ₹3 crore to ₹8 crore-₹12 crore, minister Aadhav Arjuna told the Assembly on Tuesday.
Aadhav said a review found that the original allocation of ₹3 crore for each stadium was insufficient to build facilities that would remain functional and useful in the long term. A quality running track alone could cost about ₹10 crore, he added. Previous DMK govt had announced mini-stadiums in all 234 constituencies and begun work in 75 under a phased programme. Former DMK minister Meyyanathan, who raised the issue, said 44 stadiums had been completed and opened, while construction was under way at 31 locations.
A stadium required a swimming pool, gym, and an athletics track, he said. Citing the Karur mini-stadium, he said its running track was in poor condition and could injure athletes. Arjuna said the scheme would be modified rather than scrapped. Work would begin soon, he said. Region-specific sports facilities would be developed to encourage young talent across the state, he said.
Meyyanathan sought clarity on whether TVK govt would complete or abandon the ongoing projects. Former chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had also pointed out that construction of the mini-stadium in his constituency had slowed down.