MP Harbhajan Singh pitches in Rs 49.47L for new cricket stadium in Jalandhar

The cricket scene in Jalandhar is getting a big boost: apart from the ongoing development of a stadium at Burlton Park Sports Hub, another facility is being readied in the backyard of Government College of Education, Ladowali Road.

Cricketer and Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan ‘Bhajji’ Singh has sanctioned a grant of Rs 49.47 lakh from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) funds to develop the stadium on 35 kanals.

Bhajji said he took keen interest in the development of facilities for his game, cricket, in his hometown.

The stadium is being developed by the PWD Department, with the first phase set to be completed in six months, before the conclusion of the term of the present government.

For the project, an MoU has been signed between the Jalandhar Olympic Association and the Higher Education Secretary. Levelling work has begun at the site, and a pitch is being readied.

Work on facilities such as washrooms and lighting would be carried out in the first phase, while

other works — such as the construction of galleries for VIP visitors — would be carried out in the

subsequent phase.

Surjit Rai Bitta, honorary secretary, District Cricket Association, said: “So far, the only government cricket facility that we have in Jalandhar is the Burlton Park. However, players have not been able to use it, owing to ongoing construction work. With the number of registered cricket players in Jalandhar — including young girls — rising, more cricket facilities in the area have become all the more important. For an international cricket stadium, the minimum requirement of land is 7-10 acres. They (authorities) can make a cricket stadium on the 5-acre land available at the education college — but not one that meets international standards.”Jalandhar