Khattar inaugurates indoor sports complex, cricket stadium, Mahila Ashram in Karnal
Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday dedicated three major projects in the city worth Rs 59 crore to the public. These projects, initially scheduled for inauguration on January 6, were postponed due to the last-minute cancellation of Khattar's visit.
He inaugurated the state-of-the-art indoor sports complex in Sector-32, constructed on a two-acre plot at a cost of Rs 44 crore. The facility includes an Olympics-standard swimming pool with 10 lanes (50 m x 25 m) equipped with heating, filtration and lighting systems, along with a warm-up pool (25 m x 21 m). It also features a badminton hall with five courts, seating for 384 spectators, three modern gym halls, a cross-fit training area and a yoga/meditation hall. Additional amenities include separate shower rooms, lockers, changing areas for men and women, a cafeteria, a medical room, an administrative office and parking facilities.
Addressing fitness enthusiasts at the event, Khattar shared childhood memories, recalling how he could hold his breath under water for 1.15 minutes, the highest among his friends. He encouraged the youth to persevere and focus on their goals in sports, emphasising hard work as the key to success. “I used to hold my breath for long while swimming. I appeal to young sportspersons to adopt this habit,” he said.
Praising the Smart City team for the facility, Khattar said the complex housed the largest swimming pool in the state. He said that the swimming pool, gym and badminton hall would be leased to a private operator but sportspersons would have free access to these amenities.
The minister later inaugurated a cricket ground in Sector-9, developed at a cost of Rs 1.75 crore. The facility includes a hall for players, separate restrooms for men and women, a boundary wall and entry gates.
Khattar also dedicated the Mahila Ashram in Shakti Colony, built over 0.7 acres at a cost of Rs 13 crore. The five-storey building includes 22 two-bedroom flats and 66 one-bedroom flats, each with attached bathrooms and kitchens, providing a safe and comfortable living environment for women.
