Delhi University gets swanky new stadium

NEW DELHI - The swanky Delhi University Stadium, a Commonwealth Games venue for rugby, was inaugurated Thursday by Sports Minister M.S. Gill, who said maintaining the infrastructure coming up for the mega-event after the Games was a “big challenge” before the organisers.

“This stadium is a gift to the Delhi University. The games will be held in it, but this gift will remain with you forever. The work here started only in 2008 and I am happy that a sprawling complex has come up in just two years,” Gill said at the function.

Later talking to reporters, he said maintaining stadiums after the sporting events is a challenge that every host country faces. “I went to Athens, Melbourne and even China for either Olympics or Commonwealth Games. The authorities there too said it remained a challenge,” he added.

To a query that Games venues may be handed over to the private players, Gill said: “A proper strategy is going to come very soon. But, what we can assure that public and the players will not face any problem.”

Speaking at the function, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said it was an important day in the history of Delhi University and such a facility will inspire students to sports.

“Its a great legacy for the Varsity,” said Dikshit, a DU alumni.

The stadium has ben built up in 10,000 sq.m with a seating capacity of 2,500 permanent seats and 7,500 temporary ones.