Mandya fast-tracks international basketball stadium project

The development of an international-standard basketball stadium at Visvesvaraya Stadium in Mandya has gathered momentum, with authorities upgrading plans to incorporate modern infrastructure and enhanced design features.

During a review meeting held on Thursday, P. Ravikumar Gowda, Mandya MLA, inspected the blueprint of the project, estimated to cost around ₹3 crore. He directed officials to create an attractive basketball-themed entrance arch to give the stadium a distinctive identity.

The proposed facility is said to feature an international-standard basketball court, a modern spectator gallery, players’ rest rooms, lighting arrangements, drinking water facilities, toilets and other essential amenities.

Addressing officials, the MLA said the project aims to create better sporting opportunities for the youth in Mandya district and provide quality infrastructure to nurture emerging talent. He noted that the initiative would help sportspersons, particularly from rural areas, compete at the State, national, and international levels.

According to officials, the stadium is expected to strengthen sports activities in the district and facilitate the conduct of State and national-level basketball tournaments. The project is also likely to provide training and competitive exposure to rural players, promote sports tourism, and contribute to the physical and mental development of students.

The initiative is being seen as a significant step towards transforming Mandya into a major sports destination in Karnataka.

Officials from the Sports Department and engineers participated in the review meeting.