Cricket stadium in Shimla soon, says Ram Lal

Shimla, May 4 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Forest, Youth Services and Sport Minister Ram Lal Thakur today said necessary permission have been received from the Centre under the Forest Conservation Act for the construction of international cricket stadium at Katasani on the outskirts of Shimla town.

Addressing a press conference here, he said the stadium would have high standards and locational advantage with the airport just two km from the site and would cost Rs 50 crore and have a seating capacity of 30,000 people.

''We propose to complete the construction of this stadium within a year. The Forest department has already been provided Rs ten lakh to level the field and work has started on ground.

I am thankful to the chief minister for taking keen interest in making the stadium, which be the best suited for international cricket location and weather wise,'' he said.

Mr Thakur said the stadium would have the facility of parking of 5,000 vehicles and the government also proposes to have a helipad near the stadium, so that the players can fly to five star hotels like Wild Flower Hall in Chrabrara without difficulty.

UNI