The redeveloped Sigra Stadium in Varanasi, part of the Varanasi Smart City project, will be operational from July. The Rs 289.78 crore project includes a multi-sports indoor complex, enhancing sports facilities in the city. The first phase’s Operations and Maintenance tender will be completed by the end of June, with the remaining civil works for Phases 2 and 3 finishing by July.
The 1,50,000 square foot complex features facilities for badminton, squash, pool billiards, basketball, table tennis, gymnastics, judo, karate, martial arts, wrestling, taekwondo, and boxing. Additionally, it includes an Olympic-size swimming pool, a warm-up pool, and a 2000-capacity spectator gallery, as well as a gym, cafe, and lounge.
A banquet hall and sports library are also available for hosting events. The complex, built with state-of-the-art technology such as a deck slab system and modular insulated wall frames, is a fully steel structure. An on-site sewage treatment plant promotes environmental conservation by using treated water for toilet flushing and irrigation.
The new Sigra Stadium aims to transform Varanasi into a prominent sports hub in the region, encouraging local talent and providing world-class facilities for training and competitions. The development is expected to boost sports tourism and economic growth in the area, fostering a vibrant sports culture. The green building, with its GRIHA rating, underscores the commitment to sustainability, while its accessibility features ensure inclusivity for athletes of all abilities.
Officials anticipate that the modernised Sigra Stadium will also play a crucial role in hosting national and international sports events, further putting Varanasi on the global sports map. This will not only provide local athletes with greater exposure but also attract investments and infrastructure improvements in the region. The integration of cutting-edge sports technology and amenities is designed to meet international standards, positioning the stadium as a premier destination for sports excellence in India.
